Asheville, NC — Riverbend Malt House broke ground today on an expansion project that will dramatically increase production capacity. Steady demand from breweries and distilleries searching for locally produced raw materials has enabled the Asheville-based malting company to solidify its position as one of the largest craft maltsters in the country.

Over the coming months, Riverbend will work with area contractors to transition into their new production space adjacent to their current facility. The expansion will include racks for bulk grain storage, a new custom-designed kiln, additional safety features, and a partially automated system for cleaning and packaging the final product. The new equipment will enable the malt house to diversify their product line and begin packaging one-ton “Super Sacks” of malt.

“We’re grateful for the support we’ve had from the brewing community throughout the state and from their consumer base as well,” said co-owner Brent Manning. “Our success is a direct result of people reaching out in support of a local, high quality product.”

Partnerships with local research organizations, including the NC State Cooperative Extension, have allowed Riverbend to expand their network of farmers who will grow the more than 120 acres worth of grain needed for next year’s harvest. Riverbend has worked with this network of growers and researchers to identify varieties of barley that are disease resistant, which reduce the need for conventional herbicide and fertilizer while increasing crop yields. This approach supports the company’s triple bottom line business philosophy, which considers the impacts to society and the environment as well as profits.

The construction team includes Paint Rock Builders from Weaverville, NC, ProSteel Design from Asheville, NC, and Robert Todd of Asheville’s Red House Architecture.

Keep an eye on Riverbend Malt House on Twitter and Facebook in coming weeks for regular updates from the expansion project.

About Riverbend Malt House:

Riverbend provides area craft brewers and distillers with locally farmed, artisan malts while helping to reduce the industry’s impact on the planet. Founded in 2010, Riverbend Malt House was among first craft maltsters to open in the country, and the first in the South. As a founding member of the North American Craft Maltsters Guild, Riverbend Malt House is a leading force in the nation’s micro-malt movement. Learn more at www.riverbendmalt.com.