Michigan’s beer and wine distributors provide over 5,000 jobs, nearly 300,000 different beverages

May 16, 2024

Beer and wine distributors have significant economic impact, provide thousands of jobs

LANSING, Mich. – As leaders in Michigan’s robust alcohol industry, local family-owned beer and wine distributors bridge the gap between producers and consumers and significantly contribute to the state’s economy. These distributors warehouse, market, sell, deliver and merchandise products from over 2,000 alcohol producers, including 800 Michigan-based brands.

 

“In May, we celebrate Michigan Wine Month and Craft Beer Week, giving us an opportunity to recognize our distributors’ key role in promoting growth, choices, and competition,” said Spencer Nevins, president of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association. “In Michigan, consumers have an unparalleled variety of choices with over 42,000 different beers, more than 1,400 mixed spirit drinks, and over 253,000 wines available. This extensive range is thanks to our beer and wine distributors and the three-tier system for alcohol distribution.”

 

Michigan's beer and wine distributors' efforts extend beyond logistics and sales; they invest over $40 million annually in marketing and brand development, supporting more than 17,750 licensed retailers and cultivating strong brand recognition and goodwill across the state.

 

“Michigan's beer and wine distributors are integral partners in driving economic growth, supporting communities, and promoting responsible consumption,” said Kristin Beltzer, chair of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission. “Their dedication underscores their indispensable role in Michigan's alcohol industry and the vital three-tier system.”

 

Employing more than 5,200 full-time workers with competitive salaries and benefits, Michigan’s beer and wine distributors also contribute significantly to community initiatives, investing more than $6.5 million annually in over 2,200 charitable and community events.

 

Michigan's beer and wine distributors are not just pivotal to the state’s alcohol industry; they are also key community and economic pillars, supporting local communities and maintaining a thriving beer and wine industry for producers, retailers, and consumers alike.

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.