H. Cox & Son Inc. delivers range of beverages for St. Patrick’s Day, NCAA tournament celebrations

March 14, 2024

March includes a few of the top beer-drinking holidays

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – As spring approaches, beer and wine distributors are gearing up for two of the season’s top beer-drinking holidays of the season: St. Patrick’s Day and the NCAA Tournament. Ranked as the No. 9 and No. 10 top beer-drinking holidays, respectively, distributors are working hard to ensure consumers have access to a range of beverage options for the festivities.

 

“As a local, independent beer distributor, we have the unique opportunity to offer consumers a wide array of options for their celebrations, whether they're cheering for their team or marking a special occasion,” said Mark Ribel, president of H. Cox & Son Inc. “From sporting events to festive holidays, beer often plays a central role in bringing people together. We take pride in being part of a system that helps them do just that.”

 

Beer and wine distributors are well-versed in helping their retail customers determine the best beverage choices for every occasion while prioritizing quality products as well as public health and safety. They market and grow brands, providing plenty of choices while supporting thousands of jobs in their local communities.

 

“As distributors, we play a crucial role in connecting consumers with their favorite beverages and introducing them to new and exciting options,” said Ribel. “Our team works hard to promote growth, choices, and competition as we serve our customers and community during the celebratory season that includes St. Patrick’s Day and the NCAA Tournament.”

 

Tracing its company roots back 90 years, H. Cox & Son has a rich history in the Traverse City community. The beer distributor has worked hard to diversify its inventory in a dynamic tourist area market, with 35% of business done in the summer months.

 

An Anheuser-Busch product purchased within a 60-mile radius of Traverse City comes through H. Cox & Son’s warehouse. The company also distributes several non-alcoholic beverages and many Michigan craft beer brands such as Bell’s. H. Cox & Son employs 60 people across a range of roles and services seven counties in northwest Michigan.

Detroit News: This industry thrives because of the people who power it

By Rebecca Stow • December 30, 2025
As we close out the year, I’ve found myself reflecting on the milestones our industry has achieved and the people who made them possible. The skilled professionals who work in Michigan’s beer and wine distribution industry often start with a job that evolves into a long, fulfilling career with family-owned businesses deeply rooted in the communities they serve. Throughout 2025, the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association was proud to share the stories of over 100 individuals from across our industry, including women leaders, logistics professionals, truck drivers, veterans, salespeople, and more. We posed a simple question: What do you love most about working in beer and wine distribution? Across each campaign, a clear theme emerged among the answers: the people. Michigan’s independent beer and wine distributors support more than 6,400 jobs statewide, and each one involves building relationships. Whether helping a new restaurant choose the perfect draft lineup or wine list, sharing knowledge about new products and trends, making a delivery, or supporting a team member through their first big sale, these individuals take pride in working together to help their business partners and communities thrive. They know that success in the beer and wine industry isn’t just about what’s in the bottle—it’s about the people behind it. Throughout the holiday season and beyond, beer and wine distributors bring commitment and expertise to every aspect of this fast-paced, constantly evolving industry. They help consumers access a wide variety of quality products that are often shared during life’s big and small celebrations, bringing people together through shared experiences and traditions. The camaraderie in this industry sets it apart, creating meaningful work built on collaboration, trust, and shared success. Michigan’s beer and wine distributors are always seeking talented individuals to join their teams. From marketing, finance, and sales to warehouse operations, truck driving, or other essential roles, there are many rewarding career paths to explore. We encourage anyone interested in a dynamic, people-focused industry to reach out to their local distributors and learn more about available opportunities. As we look ahead to a new year, the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association remains committed to elevating and amplifying the remarkable work our distributors do. Their dedication turns everyday work into community impact and makes this industry truly exceptional. Spencer Nevins is the president of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association in Lansing.

Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association to open new headquarters in Boji Tower

By Rebecca Stow • December 8, 2025
LANSING, Mich. – The MB&WWA is proud to announce the opening of its new headquarters in the historic Boji Tower in downtown Lansing this Thursday, Dec. 11.

Ypsilanti-based O&W Inc. celebrates Giving Tuesday with donations to four local nonprofits

By Rebecca Stow • November 26, 2025
YPSILANTI, Mich. – As Giving Tuesday approaches on Dec. 2, O&W Inc., a fifth-generation beer distributor in Ypsilanti, celebrates its tradition of giving back.