The News
O&W Inc., a local beer distributor in Ypsilanti, Michigan, has partnered with Griffin Claw Brewing Company to release "Jam Sesh," a limited-edition Session IPA for the Ann Arbor Summer Festival. The festival runs June 12–28 on the University of Michigan’s central campus green and will feature the beer at Top of the Park. The beer is available now at select retailers and will be sold during the festival.
With craft beer volumes falling 5.1 % nationwide in 2025, Michigan’s local brewers are turning to event‑driven releases to keep shelf traffic high.
It illustrates how a distributor–brewer partnership can create a festival‑centric SKU that still reaches a wide retail network.
The Session IPA from Griffin Claw, released under O&W’s banner at Ann Arbor’s summer festival, is positioned as a local partnership designed to help counter declining craft‑beer volumes. The beer will be distributed through O&W’s existing retail network, which serves over 2,400 retailers across seven counties—an average of about 343 outlets per county.
The IPA will be available at Top of the Park during the Ann Arbor Summer Festival from June 12 to 28. While the event drives attention, sales are expected to come primarily from retailers that already stock O&W titles. The release says proceeds will go to A²SF; the festival’s 98 % free programming encourages large foot traffic but does not guarantee sales.
Griffin Claw operates breweries in Birmingham and Rochester Hills, adding local credibility to the partnership. The “Jam Sesh” IPA is a session‑style beer with lower ABV, making it a competitive option for on‑premise managers looking for a flavorful yet manageable pour cost.
Michigan hosts over 400 craft breweries as of 2025 and remains among the top ten states by per capita breweries. The Michigan Summer Beer Festival offers 685 unique beers from more than 100 breweries. In this saturated market, a limited‑edition release tied to a high‑visibility festival can help offset broader industry headwinds.
Distributors should anticipate increased inventory requests from Southeast Michigan retailers during the festival period. Retail buyers might promote the IPA as a “festival‑drop” to tap local pride, leveraging O&W’s distribution ties to capture consumer interest beyond the event. On‑premise operators have a lower‑ABV option that can be priced competitively while still delivering distinct flavor.
Overall, O&W’s partnership with Griffin Claw to launch “Jam Sesh” illustrates how regional distributors can broaden their portfolio and leverage high‑visibility events even as overall craft‑beer volume trends remain downward.
Original Press Release
O&W Inc., Griffin Claw Brewing Company debut “Jam Sesh” Session IPA
YPSILANTI, Mich. – Local, family-owned beer distributor O&W Inc. in Ypsilanti is celebrating its collaboration with Michigan-based Griffin Claw Brewing Company to develop a limited-edition Session IPA for the upcoming Ann Arbor Summer Festival (A2SF).
A2SF will run June 12–28 on the University of Michigan’s central campus green. The annual event brings together world-class artists, local talent and diverse audiences for a dynamic celebration of music, dance, theater, film and family-friendly entertainment.
“We’re proud to team up with our outstanding partners at Griffin Claw Brewing Company to introduce Jam Sesh, a beer inspired by the spirit, creativity and energy of A2SF,” said Kit Wanty-Lambert, president of O&W Inc. “What better way to celebrate this incredible partnership than with a beer crafted just for the occasion? Pick up a can at your favorite local store or restaurant, or better yet, enjoy one ice-cold at the festival. With every sip, you’re giving back as a portion of proceeds from each sale directly supports A2SF.”
Jam Sesh Session IPA is available now at select retailers and will be sold at Top of the Park during A2SF from June 12–28. The bold, citrus-forward beer features a custom-designed label inspired by iconic Top of the Park landmarks.
“As enthusiasts of outdoor live music, art and local talent, we jumped at the opportunity to partner with A2SF and create a beer that not only celebrates the 40-plus-year festival but also gives back to the community,” said Scott LePage, managing partner of Griffin Claw Brewing Company.
“We’re grateful to our partners at Griffin Claw for creating this special, limited-edition beer that captures the spirit of A2SF,” said Mike Michelon, executive director of A2SF. “We can’t wait to share a round of Jam Sesh with our audiences this season. Cheers.”
Over the past four decades, A2SF has become one of Michigan’s most significant summer cultural institutions. Approximately 98% of all programming is offered at no cost to attendees, making it one of the most accessible arts events of its scale in the Midwest.
“Since 1984, A2SF has been woven into the very fabric of our community and O&W’s long-standing commitment to supporting it,” Wanty-Lambert said. “Cheers to great beer, uplifting entertainment and a tradition that continues to bring our community together.”
Sources consulted (web research):
- Ypsilanti Beer Distributor Partners On Limitededition Release For Ann…
- The Michigan Summer Beer Festival Is Back This Year In Ypsilanti
- Everything To Know About Michigan Brewers Guild Summer Beer Festival…
- Visit Ypsilanti For The Largest Michigan Only Beer Festival In The State
- Try One Of 685 Unique Beers At Michigan Summer Beer Festival
Source: BevNET