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: 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).