Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association Women’s Advocacy Committee celebrates successes

September 16, 2024

MB&WWA Women’s Advocacy Committee highlights achievements, committee members for American Business Women’s Day

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (MB&WWA) Women’s Advocacy Committee is celebrating the collective and individual accomplishments of its members, who have championed the industry and helped it grow over the past year.

 

The organization is marking the committee’s successes to coincide with American Business Women’s Day, which is Sunday, Sept. 22.

 

The MB&WWA Women’s Advocacy Committee welcomed women from the Michigan Liquor Control Commission for a special reception following a Holiday Luncheon. The committee, in partnership with FIFCO USA, also proudly hosted the third annual ‘Women in Beer and Wine’ event in the spring for Michigan State University students at Dan Henry Distributing in Lansing.

 

“It’s always exciting to get together with leaders in our industry and share our expertise and career advice,” said Jenna Podjan, chair of the MB&WWA Women’s Advocacy Committee and sales manager at Bud Distributing Inc. “This event is part of our ongoing efforts to inspire the next generation of women leaders in Michigan’s beer and wine industry.”

 

Throughout the year, committee members actively engage with Michigan legislators at key events, including the MB&WWA’s annual Lobby Day and Spring Party, to discuss the vital role women play in the beer and wine distribution industry and its continued growth.

 

“We hope to see more women exploring the dynamic and rewarding career opportunities in this ever-evolving industry,” said Brandi Tribell, senior vice president of the MB&WWA and MBWWA Services Inc. “In honor of American Business Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the invaluable contributions women make to our field. It’s inspiring to see more women joining our ranks, advancing in their careers and playing pivotal roles in driving the industry's growth and success.”

 

Beer and wine distributors provide thousands of jobs and support over 2,200 charities and community events, investing millions into local communities every year.

 

As one of the most progressive state trade associations in the alcohol beverage industry, the MB&WWA represents family-owned and local beer and wine distributors who work tirelessly to deliver a wide variety of beverages to licensed retailers throughout Michigan. The Women’s Advocacy Committee comprises female executives from distributors across the state, along with the senior vice president of the MB&WWA & MBWWA Services Inc. and one of the association’s lead female lobbyists.



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.