Spirits giant Diageo has commenced the construction of its new distillery in the city of Lebanon in Kentucky.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Diageo executives and elected and community leaders of Marion County.
'A Significant Moment'
The president of Diageo's North America supply and procurement division, Erik Snyder, described the event as "a significant moment" in the company's commitment to the Kentucky spirits industry.
"We are appreciative of the county, city, state and community leaders, and the support they have shown in our journey to this day," he added.
Diageo has invested $130 million in the new distillery, which is scheduled to be fully operational from in 2021.
The facility, built on a 144-acre property, will comprise a 72,000 square-foot distillery and dry house, and 12 barrel warehouses.
The site will also be equipped to distill a variety of Diageo bourbon and American whiskey brands.
Employment Opportunities
Since 2014, Diageo has invested more than $300 million in Kentucky and the new distillery will create around 30 full-time jobs.
The facility will supplement the spirit giant's other operations in Kentucky and will collectively employ another 100 people.
Mayor of Lebanon, Gary Crenshaw, said, "Diageo is providing new jobs and business growth and investing in our future workforce.
"This investment provides a bright future for and enhances our community’s economic vitality, and we welcome them," he added.
Diageo's other operations in the region include Stitzel-Weller in Louisville, and The Bulleit Distilling Company and Visitor Experience in Shelbyville.
© 2019 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
