Manna Capital Partners, a minority-owned investment firm, is set to construct a state-of-the-art beverage production and distribution complex in Montgomery, Alabama. This substantial investment of nearly $600 million signifies a major economic boost for the region, creating 280 full-time jobs and fostering opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses.
The expansive “beverage park,” owned and operated by Manna’s affiliate, Manna Beverages & Ventures (MB&V), will span over 180 acres in a newly developed industrial park. Strategically located at the Hope Hull exit off Interstate 65, the facility will provide swift access to Southeastern markets, leveraging Alabama’s commitment to sustainable supply chain development.
Founded by Ulysses L. “Junior” Bridgeman and Kevin Attkisson, Manna Capital Partners focuses on investments across diverse industries, prioritizing sustainability and empowerment for underrepresented entrepreneurs. This Montgomery project embodies their core values, aligning with the state’s vision for economic growth and inclusivity.
The 1.7 million-square-foot production facility will accommodate both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage production, integrating cutting-edge distribution operations. Scheduled to commence production in 2025, MB&V is collaborating with sustainability consultants to minimize environmental impact through renewable energy and waste reduction strategies.
Beyond large-scale production, the facility will house a research and development center equipped with a bottling line. This innovative space will empower entrepreneurs, particularly women and minority-owned businesses, to test and launch new products, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of beverage innovation.
Manna Capital Partners established MB&V as a comprehensive supply chain partner, catering to national brands, regional players, and burgeoning startups. Offering a complete beverage packaging platform and warehousing capabilities, MB&V specializes in contract packing (co-packing), a rapidly growing industry projected to reach $119 billion by 2025. This service enables brands to outsource production and packaging sustainably.
This strategic investment by Manna Capital Partners is poised to significantly impact Montgomery’s economy, generating employment opportunities and fostering entrepreneurial growth. The collaboration between Manna and the city underscores a shared commitment to bridging the racial wealth gap and promoting inclusive economic development. The project exemplifies successful collaboration between economic development agencies, highlighting the power of partnership in driving regional prosperity. Manna Beverages & Ventures’ presence in Montgomery promises to create a ripple effect of positive change, benefiting both established brands and aspiring entrepreneurs.
