$9MM in NMTC Allocation Expands Abstract Ice Into its First Full-Scale Production Facility

Abstract Ice, a leading manufacturer of premium craft ice products, was approaching capacity at its pilot facilities in California and Oregon and needed to expand into its first full-scale production facility in Forest City, NC to meet growing demand and strategically broaden its reach into eastern U.S. markets.

Abstract Ice will install 60 proprietary ice makers, along with multiple automated saws and shaping machines to process ice into finished products with consistent sizing, clarity, and quality control. Additionally, Abstract will implement a semi-automated packaging system to streamline packaging and palletizing operations, further improving accuracy and distribution efficiency. The leased facility will also undergo certain improvements, including wall modifications, floor drains, and chilling infrastructure.

A core objective of this project was to design and construct a best-in-class facility, incorporating the latest technology to enhance production efficiency and output, while also prioritizing employee safety, food safety, and environmental stability.

After successfully growing and selling Lagunitas brewing Company, co-founders Todd Stevenson and Leon Sharyon turned their focus to developing industrial-scale equipment for manufacturing high-quality, clear craft ice that meets the evolving demands of the food and beverage industry, with advanced food safety and efficiency standards that are ahead of the rest. Founded in 2018, Abstract Ice launched its first major funding round in 2019 and began selling craft ice in California in 2020.

Utilizing proprietary technology, Abstract Ice eliminates the need for hand-cutting, significantly improving employee safety while producing premium-quality ice at low costs across a wide variety of product lines. Abstract’s customers include bars and restaurants, grocery and retail stores (Albertson’s, Total Wine, etc.), distributors (Sysco, U.S. Foods, etc.), national chains (Marriott, Morton’s, etc.), as well as venue and event spaces.

Abstract’s new facility is in rural Forest City, North Carolina, a severely distressed area where approximately 14.90% of residents live in poverty. Through this expansion, Abstract Ice plans to create and retain 56 full-time jobs, paying an average wage of $27.23/hr, which is 140% above the MIT living wage in Rutherford County, NC. Positions will include machine operators, maintenance, quality control, supervisors, and sales. 22 additional remote positions will also be created. All roles will be quality jobs that provide a living wage with comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, short and long-term disability, as well as 401(k).

One of Abstract’s recent hires for this project is a long-time resident of Forest City, NC, who now serves as the plant manager. This individual held similar roles at the same facility for prior operators over the past 40 years. Given their extensive experience with workforce recruitment and development in this community, the plant manager will bring valuable leadership, goodwill, and human resource expertise to Abstract’s new Forest City operations.

Abstract Ice is committed to fostering a skilled and safety-focused workforce by providing employees with extensive hands-on training in personal safety, food safety, and machine operation, leveraging both internal and external training partners.

Abstract will also partner with local colleges to provide ISHA 10 and SQF certifications to its staff. Additionally, employees of this emerging company will gain comprehensive operational experience on the ground floor, creating both highly marketable skills and long-term job stability with clear pathways for career advancement.

This project is backed by a $75,000 performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund, which will help support Abstract’s workforce recruitment and training expenses to establish and sustain an estimated $3 million in new payroll for this low-income community.

Abstract Ice has also gained collective support from the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, North Carolina Department of Commerce, North Carolina General Assembly, Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions, North Carolina Community College System, Isothermal Community College, Rutherford County, and the Town of Forest City, NC.

“We are thrilled to see how Abstract Ice’s explosive growth will not only create jobs, but also enrich our community,” said N.C. Representative Jake Johnson. “This company is truly setting a new standard for excellence in the industry.”

Abstract’s facility will incorporate water and energy recovery systems to improve resource efficiency and minimize environmental impact. Additionally, Abstract’s packaging is fully recyclable and designed to be reused for gifting, storage, and resending.

Through the establishment of its Forest City facility, Abstract Ice is positioning itself for continued growth while driving meaningful economic and community impact in rural North Carolina. By investing in advanced manufacturing technologies, high quality jobs, and workforce training, Abstract is creating a scalable, responsible production model that supports both national market expansion and local revitalization. This project underscores Abstract Ice’s commitment to operational excellence, food safety, and employee stability, while building long-term value for customers, partners, and the Forest City Community.