Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association announces new class of Women’s Advocacy Committee members

September 20, 2023

Committee to continue focus on promoting vital roles women play in beer and wine industry


LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (MB&WWA) today announced its newly elected Women’s Advocacy Committee for 2023-2025. The committee was established in 2020 to promote the vital roles many accomplished women play in the success and operations of the beer and wine distribution industry. The announcement coincides with American Business Women’s Day on September 22, a day to officially honor the contributions and achievements of businesswomen across the nation and their impact on the workforce.


Jenna Podjan, sales manager at Bud Distributing Inc., was appointed chair of the MB&WWA’s Women’s Advocacy Committee.


“I want to thank Kit Wanty-Lambert for her tremendous leadership the last two years as committee chair in advancing our mission to educate legislators and the general public about the evolution of women working in the beer and wine distribution industry,” Podjan said. “I look forward to working with this inspirational group of women as we continue our efforts to be a go-to resource for information on Michigan’s alcohol regulations and how they create choice and competition while protecting public health and safety.”


The innovative nature of the beer and wine distribution industry fosters astounding growth potential for women in many capacities, including sales, marketing, human resources, finance, and operations. Whether working in warehouses, merchandising in retail stores, or leading their organizations as presidents and CEOs, women are making great strides for their companies, local communities, and the industry as a whole.


“It’s our hope that more women consider exciting career opportunities in this constantly evolving and rewarding industry,” said Brandi Tribell, vice president of operations and events at the MB&WWA. “With longstanding histories where they live and work, beer and wine distributors employ thousands of Michiganders and pump millions of dollars into local communities each year. It’s exciting to witness more women coming on board, climbing the ranks, and playing pivotal roles in the development and success of the industry.”


Podjan and Tribell are two of 11 female executives on the MB&WWA Women’s Advocacy Committee:


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.
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.
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.