North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Custom Flavors, a California-based flavor developer and manufacturer, has announced plans to build an East Coast production facility in Cabarrus County. The move will create 30 new jobs and represent a $6.5 million investment in the region.
The new facility, located in Concord, will help boost Custom Flavors’ production capacity and innovation efforts. The company’s decision to expand to North Carolina underscores the state’s growing reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing and food science.
“North Carolina has built a strong reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse with a skilled workforce and world-class infrastructure,” said Gov. Roy Cooper. “The expansion of Custom Flavors to Cabarrus County further strengthens our position as a leader in cutting-edge food science and advanced manufacturing.”
Founded in 2005, Custom Flavors is a family-owned business that specializes in the development and production of liquid and powdered flavor solutions. The company serves a variety of industries, including bakery, beverage, confectionery, dairy, supplements and sports nutrition. Custom Flavors is known for its expertise in creating organic, natural, and artificial flavors, and it supports partners through every stage of product development, from ideation to market launch.
“We’re thrilled to be expanding our operations to North Carolina and becoming part of the Concord community,” said Alex Wendling, president of Custom Flavors, expressed enthusiasm about the move. “This location will serve as our Eastern hub for innovation, supplying growing brands and manufacturers.
“North Carolina’s dynamic growth and welcoming business environment made it the ideal choice for this next chapter in our journey.”
The new Concord facility will help Custom Flavors reduce lead times and freight costs for its expanding customer base along the East Coast.
“North Carolina has the largest manufacturing workforce in the Southeast and is home to the fourth-largest food and beverage industry in the U.S.,” said Machelle Baker Sanders, secretary of the North Carolina Department of Commerce. “With institutions like the North Carolina State University Food Science Department and the North Carolina Food Innovation Lab, our state provides a solid foundation for companies like Custom Flavors to grow and thrive.”
As part of the expansion, the company will receive a performance-based grant of $34,000 from the One North Carolina Fund. This fund helps attract businesses to the state by supporting job creation and capital investment. The grant will be paid out once Custom Flavors meets specific job creation and investment targets.
