Ypsilanti-based O&W Inc. celebrates Giving Tuesday with donations to four local nonprofits

November 26, 2025

Fifth-generation beer distributor strengthens community ties through charitable giving

YPSILANTI, Mich. – As Giving Tuesday approaches on Dec. 2, O&W Inc., a fifth-generation beer distributor in Ypsilanti, celebrates its annual tradition of giving back to its local communities.

 

Founded in 1933 and now led by the fifth generation of the Wanty family, O&W Inc. views giving back as a cornerstone of its business. Supporting local communities is central to its mission, and Giving Tuesday helps continue this long-standing tradition.

 

“As a family-owned business, our roots are in the communities where we live and work,” said Kit Wanty-Lambert, president of O&W Inc. “Giving back isn’t just part of what we do, it’s part of who we are. The relationships we have with our retail partners and neighbors remind us why it’s so important to stay connected and support the places we call home.”


O&W Inc. donates $50,000 to local causes annually, with $10,000 dedicated to Giving Tuesday. This year, the four Wanty family members who actively operate the day-to-day business each selected a nonprofit that holds personal significance:

 

Kit Wanty-Lambert: $2,500 to the Humane Society of Huron Valley

Jamie Wanty: $2,500 to Faith in Action – Dexter Chelsea

Isabel Wanty: $2,500 to Washtenaw Literacy

Cooper Wanty: $2,500 to the ChadTough Defeat DIPG Foundation

 

“We’re hopeful these contributions help our local organizations continue their critical work, especially during the holiday season,” Wanty-Lambert said.

 

Independent, family-owned beer and wine distributors provide thousands of jobs statewide and support over 2,200 charities and community events annually, investing millions in local communities.

 

For more information about O&W Inc., the Wanty family and the portfolio of outstanding brands they proudly deliver to local retailers, please visit www.onwbeer.com.

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.

Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association elects new leadership to its board of directors

By Rebecca Stow • August 4, 2025
LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (MB&WWA) is proud to announce the election of new executive officers and at-large directors. This leadership team will guide the MB&WWA over the next two years, continuing its efforts to support Michigan’s beer and wine distributors and drive the