Craft beer lovers can toast continued growth of state’s craft beer industry during Michigan Craft Beer Month

Kalamazoo, MI — July is Craft Beer Month in Michigan and Imperial Beverage, a family owned beer, wine and spirits distributor, is proud to work with craft brewers in their communities and across the state to support the state’s flourishing craft beer industry and provide a wide range of choices to consumers.

“We’re proud to partner with craft breweries big and small across Michigan and help them succeed,” said Joe Cekola, president of Imperial Beverage. “As Michigan continues its economic recovery, it’s never been more important to support local businesses — and that includes your local craft brewery.”

With more than 330 breweries dotted across the state, Michigan’s beer distributors play a vital role in helping craft brewers compete, grow and thrive on a level playing field. Distributors help breweries access retailers, expand to new markets and grow their brands — all while ensuring the freshest beer possible is on tap at bars and restaurants and on store shelves.

“This month is the perfect opportunity to raise a glass at your local brewery and toast the past and future success of Michigan’s craft beer industry,” Cekola said.

Michigan’s independent, family owned beer distributors employ thousands of people and pump hundreds of millions of dollars back into the local economy.

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Imperial Beverage is a long-standing member of the Michigan beverage distribution community. Established in 1933 after the repeal of prohibition and purchased by Kalamazoo’s Cekola family in 1984, Imperial has grown from a one county beer distributor to a top 10 statewide beer, wine, and spirits wholesaler. With 325 employees and 4 locations in Kalamazoo, Livonia, Ishpeming, and Traverse City, Imperial provides statewide coverage that serves every Michigan County, every week, all year long.