What is a Beer & Wine Distributor?

A beer and wine distributor is a critical link in the Three-Tier System of alcohol distribution. They purchase alcoholic beverages from suppliers (breweries, wineries, etc.) and distribute them to licensed retailers, such as grocery stores, bars, and restaurants. They work hard to help new brands get to market, ensuring consumers have a wide variety of options.

Thanks to Michigan's independent and family-owned beer and wine distributors, our state is among the Top 5 states in beer production, with more than 400 breweries and nearly 200 wineries. 

Michigan’s beer and wine distributors promote choice and competition by preventing large out-of-state and foreign companies from monopolizing the alcohol market.

Michigan’s independent, family-owned beer distributors provide thousands of jobs throughout the state and donate millions of dollars to support local organizations, events, and charitable causes.

Many distributorships are family-owned, with generations of leadership that have established longstanding commitments to making the places they live and work better for all.

DID YOU KNOW?

  • Michigan’s beer and wine distributors service over 17,750 licensed retailers, promoting and growing brands through sales strategies, point-of-sale advertising, and merchandising.

  • Independent, family-owned distributors have deep roots in Michigan. They provide thousands of jobs and support over 2,200 charities and community events, investing millions into local communities.

  • Michigan’s beer and wine distributors are pioneers in energy efficiency and cutting-edge conservation, recycling, and environmental practices to reduce energy waste and pollution.

Thanks to local distributors, consumers in Michigan enjoy unparalleled choices:

over 42,000 beers

more than 253,000 wines

1,400 mixed spirit drinks

Share by: