Impact Beverage, a beverage manufacturer based in Cincinnati's Spring Grove Village neighborhood, has announced an ambitious expansion plan to double its current workforce of 60 employees. The company, known for contract manufacturing of canned cocktails, energy drinks, and non-alcoholic drinks, is responding to increased customer demand with significant growth. As detailed by JobsOhio, the expansion includes adding 10,000 square feet to the existing production facility alongside a commitment to create 65 new jobs.
As noted by REDI Cincinnati, these new positions will contribute an additional $4.6 million in annual payroll. The workforce expansion is also a boon for the local economy, supporting the region’s $3.5 billion Food, Flavoring, and Beverage sector. Kimm Lauterbach, REDI Cincinnati president and CEO, emphasized the role of Impact Beverage as a key supplier in driving innovation within this sector.
Whit Hesser, Impact Beverage Chief Operating Officer, expressed gratitude for the funds facilitating the upgrade, stating, "These funds are instrumental in helping us to expand our facilities, enhance our equipment and ultimately create more job opportunities in our community. We are truly appreciative of the support and will use the resources to better serve our customers and propel our business forward," in a statement obtained by JobsOhio. The capital investment will pave the way for advanced machinery and technology improvements, including a new pasteurization line and enhanced canning capabilities.
In mutual recognition of the importance of this growth, the City of Cincinnati is collaborating with Impact Beverage by working on a local incentive package. Furthermore, the State of Ohio has approved a Job Creation Tax Credit, and JobsOhio also indicated plans to offer additional assistance after finalizing a formal agreement. This financial and strategic support hints at a fertile partnership between the municipal state entities and the private sector for sustainable economic development. More details on the expansion timeline can be found in the release from JobsOhio, indicating the construction is expected to commence in early 2025.
Recognizing Ohio's comprehensive value chain to food and beverage industries, Impact Beverage's decision to expand within the state underscores the benefits of its infrastructure, access to raw materials, and a skilled workforce. According to a release from Local12, these attributes of Ohio contributed to the company's decision to invest in its existing location rather than look elsewhere for expansion opportunities. This move is set to cement further Impact Beverage’s position in the competitive and fast-growing beverage market.
