Empowering tomorrow's female industry leaders, ‘Women in Beer and Wine’ share career insights

March 27, 2024

MB&WWA Women’s Advocacy Committee leads panel, showcases women's expanding impact in Michigan’s beer and wine industry


LANSING, Mich. – Members of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (MB&WWA) Women’s Advocacy Committee, along with FIFCO USA, recently hosted an event for a group of Michigan State University students at Dan Henry Distributing in Lansing. A panel of committee members and other women who work in the beer and wine industry shared their expertise and career guidance. The event was part of the MB&WWA committee’s ongoing efforts to inspire the next generation of women leaders in Michigan’s beer and wine industry.

 

“It's inspiring to see and experience the robust support for advancement and empowerment as women flourish in leadership and key roles across all three tiers, from suppliers to distributors and retailers,” said Joanie O’Sullivan-Butler, president and CEO of John P. O’Sullivan Distributing Inc. and member of the MB&WWA Women’s Advocacy Committee. “I was honored to sit on a panel with other women leaders I admire to raise awareness about opportunities in our industry and inspire the next generation to pursue rewarding careers in our ever-evolving field.”

 

O’Sullivan-Butler was one of four female panelists who represented the different facets of the beer and wine industry: Ashlii McGee, talent acquisition manager for FIFCO USA, Brighton Ferris, marketing sales representative for FIFCO USA, Royal Oak, and Jenna Podjan, sales manager for Bud Distributing Inc. Brandi Tribell, senior vice president of MB&WWA and MBWWA Services Inc., and Tracy McGrew, chain account manager for FIFCO USA, moderated the panel.

 

The panel discussed a range of topics, including the changing landscape of the beer and wine industry and how women are stepping into more leadership roles, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges and rewarding aspects of working in the beer and wine industry as a woman.

 

“The Women in Beer and Wine event broadened my perspective on various aspects of an industry I hadn't explored before,” said Kate Kocher, a freshman studying food science at Michigan State University. “I'm not only enthusiastic about discovering the various career paths within the beer and wine industry, but I also drew inspiration from the accomplished women on the panel who generously shared their support and insights. Their guidance will undoubtedly accompany me as I embark on my career.”


As one of the alcohol beverage industry’s most progressive state trade associations, the MB&WWA represents family-owned and local beer and wine distributors who work hard every day to deliver a wide variety of beverages to licensed retailers throughout Michigan. The Women’s Advocacy Committee is made up of female executives from distributors across the state, as well as the senior vice president of MB&WWA & MBWWA Services Inc. and one of its lead female lobbyists.



Detroit News: Celebrating Michigan’s Family-Owned Beer and Wine Distributors

By Rebecca Stow • June 23, 2026
On June 23, National Family-Owned and Operated Businesses Day offers an opportunity to recognize the local companies that form the backbone of Michigan’s economy. Among them are the state’s beer and wine distributors—independent, family-owned businesses that have been serving their communities for decades. These are multigenerational operations rooted in Michigan communities, where leadership is often passed from one generation to the next. Their longevity reflects not only business success, but a deep commitment to the people and places they serve. When I began my work with the Michigan Beer and Wine Wholesalers Association two decades ago, the industry looked very different. Today, Michigan consumers enjoy an unprecedented variety of choices, supported by advanced logistics, compliance systems, and strong retail partnerships. That evolution has been driven in large part by family-owned distributors who continue to invest in their people, infrastructure and communities. Their local ownership gives them a unique understanding of the retailers and consumers they serve. It also means decisions are made with a long-term perspective—focused not just on growth, but on sustainability and community impact. Thoughtful alcohol policy helps ensure a fair and competitive marketplace, protects public health and safety, and allows businesses of all sizes to thrive. By maintaining strong relationships with lawmakers and industry partners, Michigan’s beer and wine distributors have helped modernize laws while preserving the structure and accountability of the proven three-tier system. As we recognize family-owned businesses across the state this June, it is worth celebrating the role Michigan’s beer and wine distributors have played for decades and will continue to play in the years ahead. Their strength lies not only in their ability to adapt, but in the values that have guided them from the beginning: local ownership, strong relationships, and a commitment to doing business the right way. Spencer Nevins is president of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association in Lansing.

Mid-Michigan beer distributor celebrates 65 years in business, three generations of family leadership

By Rebecca Stow • May 4, 2026
OWOSSO, Mich. – Main Beverage Company marks 65 years in business this year, celebrating three generations of family leadership and a legacy rooted in mid-Michigan.

Ypsilanti beer distributor partners on limited-edition release for Ann Arbor Summer Festival

By Rebecca Stow • April 14, 2026
YPSILANTI, Mich. – Local, family-owned beer distributor O&W Inc. in Ypsilanti is celebrating its collaboration with Michigan-based Griffin Claw Brewing Company to develop a limited-edition Session IPA for the upcoming Ann Arbor Summer Festival (A2SF).