Ypsilanti-based beer distributor announces new routing software to enhance efficiency, sustainability

April 11, 2024

O&W Inc. pioneers sustainable solutions ahead of Earth Day

YPSILANTI, Mich. – Just ahead of Earth Day on April 22, southeast Michigan beer distributor O&W Inc. is excited to implement new routing software that will optimize delivery routes, increase operational efficiency and enhance order accuracy.

 

“We’re thrilled to launch this transformative project that will revolutionize our sales and delivery operations,” said Kit Wanty-Lambert, president of O&W Inc. “By leveraging advanced routing software, we aim to streamline our delivery processes, ultimately leading to improved customer satisfaction and employee safety.”

 

Key highlights of the new routing software integration include:

 

  • Creating summer and winter delivery plans to accommodate seasonal demand fluctuations. O&W Inc. sells nearly double the amount of beer in June and July versus January and February.
  • Reducing the number of delivery days from five to four, resulting in a more efficient use of resources and a reduced carbon footprint.
  • Encouraging accounts to hold more inventory, helping to minimize the need for frequent deliveries and further reducing environmental impact. With orders in the system earlier in the day, night crew workers will get home earlier, enhancing work-life balance for employees.

 

“We will be tracking the monthly impact of these changes to drive improvement,” said Benjamin Brinson, delivery manager at O&W Inc. “By rerouting trucks to cut one delivery day, we keep seven trucks that get five miles per gallon idle, saving fuel and reducing commuter trips — an important step in our company’s commitment to energy efficiency and conservation.”

 

Founded in 1933, O&W Inc. is a fifth-generation, family-owned beer distributor serving a seven-county footprint in southeast Michigan that includes parts of Wayne County. With nearly 200 workers, the company prioritizes sustainability, actively engaging in recycling initiatives and implementing sustainable practices throughout its operations.

 

“Embracing change for environmental progress is paramount for our company's mission, which necessitates a willingness to innovate and adapt," said Isabel Wanty, vice president of human resources and operations at O&W Inc. “Every member of our team plays a vital role in making decisions that drive us toward our shared environmental goals.”

 

By integrating innovation into its longstanding tradition of excellence, O&W Inc. strives to uphold its legacy while championing a more sustainable future for its customers, employees and the communities where they live and work.

 

“Beer distributors work hard, but we can also work smart,” said Andy Roe, director of strategy and analytics at O&W Inc. “On this Earth Day, the team at O&W Inc. is proud of the continuous improvements we are making to be responsible business partners and environmental stewards.”

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.