Diageo Opens US$415m Sustainable Drink Manufacturing Site

Diageo North America has opened a 360,000 square foot manufacturing and warehouse facility in Montgomery, Alabama. The site includes automated transport systems and electric heating infrastructure.

The company operates in nearly 180 countries with more than 200 brands. According to Diageo, the new facility has a multi-million case annual production capacity. The Montgomery location was strategically selected to enhance distribution capabilities across the Southern United States market.

The facility will manufacture and bottle a range of Diageo's spirit brands for distribution throughout the region. This expansion strengthens the company's production footprint in North America and supports growing consumer demand.

Technology and sustainability features

The Montgomery facility uses five automated guided vehicles to transport pallets throughout the site. Electric boilers provide heat for sanitation and bottle filling operations.

A battery energy storage system operates as backup power. The facility includes water and energy metering technology that provides real-time data on resource use.

Marsha McIntosh, President of North America Supply at Diageo, says the facility could strengthen connections to customers. "The opening of Diageo Montgomery marks an important step forward in building the agile, future-ready supply network that our business demands," says Marsha.

"By placing this facility at the heart of the Southern region, we're not only strengthening our connection to customers, but also setting a new standard for efficient, sustainable manufacturing." She adds that the site aims to ensure brands reach consumers with lower environmental impact.

Investment and employment impact

According to Diageo, the facility represents an investment of approximately US$415m. The company will employ 100 full-time team members at the site.

The project supported 750 jobs during the construction phase. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey says the facility brings jobs to the state.

"Diageo's continued investment in Montgomery is a strong testament to Alabama's ability to attract and retain world-class companies," says Kay. "This facility not only brings quality jobs to our state, but also strengthens our position as a leader in manufacturing and global commerce."

Steven L. Reed, Mayor of the City of Montgomery, says the investment could create opportunities for residents. "This is about more than economic growth – it's about creating quality jobs, expanding opportunity and building pathways for our residents," says Steven.

Educational investment programme

Diageo has invested US$750,000 in support of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority-Serving Institutions in Alabama. The investment will serve Alabama A&M University, Alabama State University and Tuskegee University.

According to Diageo, the funding will provide scholarships and financial support to students. The programme aims to create pathways to career opportunities.

Anna Buckalew, President and CEO of the Montgomery Regional Chamber, says the project took several years to complete. "From state and local leadership to infrastructure and utilities, it reflects the coordination required to bring it to life," says Anna.

"This facility strengthens our manufacturing and logistics base – particularly in beverage production – creates new opportunities for our workforce, both now and for the next generation and drives long-term growth for the Capital Region."