Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Joins WNC's Rich Beer Culture

The country’s second largest craft beer maker has announced plans to expand its operations to the East Coast.  That location will be set halfway between Asheville and Hendersonville in Mills River, NC.

North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue joined Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. officials at the announcement Wednesday on the site of where the new facility will be built.

“After carefully looking at more than 200 sites east of the Mississippi, Sierra Nevada is pleased to locate our second brewery in Henderson County,” said CEO Ken Grossman.  “We are very grateful to the officials in Mills River, Henderson County and the State of North Carolina whose time, effort and commitment were instrumental in making this happen."

The expansion is expected to bring hundreds of jobs.  The company plans to create nearly 100 full-time positions and another 80 part-time workers and 60 construction jobs.

Hiring is set to start in mid to late 2012.  Salaries will vary, but the company says the annual wage for the new jobs will be more than $40 thousand plus benefits.

Along with the local economic boost comes a tourism opportunity.  The facility will feature the opportunity for tours, a tasting room, live music and a restaurant.

The construction period is expected to take approximately two years.

The Henderson County Board of Commissioners approved a 7-year, $3.75 million economic incentive package for an unnamed manufacturing company last month.  The Mills River Town Council also approved economic incentives for a project, according to our coverage partners at the Times-News of Hendersonville.

A $1.025 million grant from the One North Carolina Fund also helped make the project possible.

7 On Your Side talked to residents in Henderson County on the eve of the announcement.  Most said they’re excited for more jobs in the area.

"I drive to South Carolina everyday and I live in Brevard so I'm driving 50 miles a day and there are a lot of people who drive distances," said Henderson County resident Debbie Williams.

Williams went on to say she knows firsthand that the county doesn’t have enough jobs.  She says the long commute is proof.

Sierra Nevada is based in Chico, CA.  The new East Coast operation facility will be located in the Ferncliff Industrial Park off Old Fanning Bridge Road near the Asheville Regional Airport.

“We are proud that Sierra Nevada, with its tradition of innovation, stewardship and quality, chose to tap all the great things North Carolina had to offer,” said Gov. Perdue.  “This announcement enhances a burgeoning craft beer industry in our state.   The investment, jobs and brand recognition Sierra Nevada brings will be a boon to this region and help confirm North Carolina as a destination for innovation.”

The brewery will be right at home in Western North Carolina.  The area is already home to several craft beer breweries.

For more information on the company and careers, click here.