06/10/2026
Behind Michigan's beer and wine distributors are family-owned companies that have remained rooted in their communities for generations. 🍺🍷🚛 In honor of National Family-Owned & Operated Businesses Day on June 23, we're hearing directly from employees about what makes working for these distributors unique.
Meet Karen St. Onge, Chain Price Coordinator at Earl Smith Distributing Co.
📅 How long have you been with your company?
7 months
✨ What is your favorite thing about your company's workplace culture?
The workplace culture at Earl Smith is truly exceptional. It is a positive, supportive, and welcoming environment where employees are treated with respect and appreciation. The owners genuinely care about their team, creating a culture built on trust, teamwork, and open communication.
⚡ What does it mean to you to work for a family-owned business?
This job has truly been life-changing for me. The work environment is relaxed, supportive, and free from unnecessary stress. The owners and my coworkers are some of the best people anyone could ever hope to work with. This position has brought so much light, positivity, and energy back into my life. Coming to work each day is something I genuinely look forward to, and I feel valued and appreciated as part of the team.
🚛 What's one thing you wish more people knew about the beer and wine distribution industry?
One thing I wish more people knew about the beer distribution industry is how much work happens behind the scenes to ensure products are available when and where customers want them. Beer distribution is far more than simply moving products from one place to another—it requires careful planning, inventory management, logistics, pricing, supplier relationships, and coordination with retailers.
🍺🍷 What’s your current go-to beverage?
Grape White Claw
