North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Abstract Ice Inc., a producer of specialty craft ice products, will invest $14.7 million to build a new manufacturing facility in Forest City, Rutherford County.
“We are thrilled to welcome Abstract Ice to Rutherford County,” said Gov. Roy Cooper said. “This investment in Western North Carolina underscores the region’s strong workforce, infrastructure, and quality of life, which continue to attract forward-thinking companies like Abstract Ice.”
Founded in 2018, Abstract Ice is a California-based company revolutionizing the craft ice industry. The company produces crystal-clear, slow-melting ice cubes and other shapes designed to enhance the cocktail experience while reducing dilution. Known for its high-quality, customizable ice products, Abstract Ice serves bars, grocery stores, and event venues nationwide. The new Forest City facility will increase production capacity to meet the growing demand for its innovative products across the East Coast and beyond.
“We are excited to be coming to North Carolina and look forward to becoming part of the Forest City community,” said Todd Stevenson, CEO of Abstract Ice. “The state’s business-friendly environment and the strong support from local leaders in Rutherford County and Forest City made this an easy decision for us. We look forward to expanding our operations and continuing to lead the industry with cutting-edge technology.”
Abstract Ice is known for its proprietary automation technology, which streamlines the labor-intensive process of hand-carving ice into intricate shapes and designs. The company has quickly become an industry leader, not only in terms of product innovation but also in areas such as food safety, environmental sustainability, and worker safety.
In addition to the creation of 26 new jobs, which will offer average annual wages of $57,038—above the county’s average wage of $45,030—the expansion will have a significant economic impact on the region. The company’s payroll for the new positions is expected to total more than $1.48 million annually.
To assist with this expansion, Abstract Ice has been awarded a $75,000 performance-based grant from the state’s One North Carolina Fund. The fund helps local governments attract business investments and create jobs, with companies receiving funding only after meeting agreed-upon investment and job creation targets. Local governments are required to match the state’s funding.
“Abstract Ice’s decision to expand in North Carolina highlights our state’s reputation as a destination for innovation and economic growth,” said Machelle Baker Sanders, N.C. commerce secretary. “We’re proud to support companies like Abstract Ice as they tap into our skilled workforce and contribute to the region’s economic vitality.”
State and local leaders were also enthusiastic about the announcement.
“Congratulations to Abstract Ice for choosing North Carolina as the location for their new facility,” said State Sen. Timothy D. Moffitt. “This expansion demonstrates the strength of our local economy and our commitment to supporting new business opportunities.”
“We’re excited to see the growth of Abstract Ice and the positive impact it will have on Rutherford County and Forest City,” said N.C. Rep. Jake Johnson. “This company’s innovative approach to manufacturing is setting new standards for the industry and will help drive economic development in the region.”
The project received support from a wide range of partners, including the North Carolina General Assembly, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, Isothermal Community College, the North Carolina Community College System, Rutherford County, and the Town of Forest City.
With its new manufacturing facility in Forest City, Abstract Ice is poised to become a key player in the rapidly expanding craft ice market while providing significant economic benefits to Western North Carolina.
