Core Insights - Sazerac Company plans to invest over $38 million to expand operations at its New Albany, Indiana facility, managed by Northwest Ordinance Distilling [1][2] - The investment includes over $35 million for new equipment and over $2 million for real property improvements [1] - The expansion aims to increase production capacity to meet growing demand for distilled spirits products [2] Investment and Economic Impact - The New Albany city council approved the investment after accepting a local property tax abatement [2] - The project will create 25 new full-time positions and ensure continued employment for the existing 357 team members [2] - Construction and equipment installation are expected to begin later this year [3] Company Commitment and Community Relations - Sazerac's president and CEO emphasized the investment's role in better serving customers and reinforcing commitment to the New Albany community [3] - The company has been operating in New Albany since 2017, bottling a range of spirits for distribution across the US, including Fireball Cinnamon Whisky [4] - The expansion reflects Sazerac's confidence in the community and the region's strength as a global hub for manufacturing and logistics [4] Recent Acquisitions - Earlier this month, Sazerac acquired local craft distiller Western Son Vodka and Distillery, which produces flavored vodkas and gin [5] - The acquisition includes all company assets, production capabilities, and employees [5]

Core Insights - Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is investigating potential claims against MGP Ingredients, Inc. (MGPI) on behalf of long-term stockholders due to a class action complaint filed on December 16, 2024, concerning alleged breaches of fiduciary duties by the board of directors during the class period from May 4, 2023, to October 30, 2024 [1][6]. Company Overview - MGP Ingredients, Inc. is a manufacturer of hard liquors, including tequila, bourbon, rye, whiskey, vodka, and gin, selling products under its own brands and to other distributors [6]. - Prior to the class period, sales of hard liquors surged due to COVID-19, but post-quarantine, the industry experienced a slowdown, leading to increased inventory backlogs [6]. Allegations and Impact - The complaint alleges that MGPI misled investors by assuring them that it was well-positioned to manage the industry slowdown and inventory buildup [6]. - On October 17, 2024, MGPI announced that demand had slowed and excess inventory would negatively impact sales, resulting in a 29.5% drop in stock price [6]. - Following further revelations on October 31, 2024, regarding the greater-than-expected impact of excess inventory, MGPI's stock fell an additional 14.7%, closing at $49.04 per share, leading to a total decline of nearly 50% and significant loss in market capitalization [6].

Core Insights - Central Standard Craft Distillery will relocate its main operations to a refurbished 73,000-square-foot space on the historic Harley-Davidson campus in Milwaukee, aiming to open in late spring 2026 [1][3] - The expansion is expected to increase distillery production capacity by 20 times and create new job opportunities, with headcount projected to double [4][3] - Both Central Standard and Harley-Davidson have a strong history of investing in the Milwaukee community, enhancing local economic and tourism landscapes [2][6] Company Developments - Central Standard's new facility will include full distillery production, a tasting room, tours, and private events, consolidating operations currently spread across three locations [1][4] - The project is designed by Minnesota-based firm HGA, which has previously worked on Central Standard's Crafthouse & Kitchen [5] - Harley-Davidson continues to invest in the Juneau Avenue area, recently unveiling Davidson Park as part of its commitment to community revitalization [6][7] Market Position - Central Standard Craft Distillery is recognized as the fastest-growing top-10 distiller in Wisconsin, producing award-winning spirits from locally sourced ingredients [9] - The partnership with Harley-Davidson is seen as a strategic move to enhance Central Standard's presence and engagement within the Milwaukee community [4][3]