Milo’s Tea Company executives and Oklahoma government officials recently broke ground on a new manufacturing and distribution center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, Milo’s will invest $60 million in the construction of a 108,000 square-foot facility and in the installation of advanced manufacturing equipment to provide additional production capacity to support its continued growth.
“From our initial visit, Tulsa felt like our second home,” said Milo’s Chief Executive Officer Patricia Wallwork. “Since our founding more than 73 years ago in Alabama, Milo’s proudly remains a family-owned business. We are equally proud to plant new roots in the greater Tulsa region.” According to the Tulsa Regional Chamber, the total economic impact of the expansion in Tulsa means the 110 direct jobs at Milo’s Tea will support an additional 177 indirect jobs in the community.
“The fact that Milo's chose Tulsa after an extensive nationwide search and was drawn to Oklahoma’s workforce and family-centric culture is something that should inspire pride in all Oklahomans,” Gov. Kevin Stitt said. “Our state’s location will be optimal for the company, providing impressive transportation savings, as they expand into the western U.S.”
Founded as a hamburger shop in 1946, by Milo and Bea Carlton, Milo’s manufactures, distributes, markets and sells all-natural, fresh-brewed teas and lemonades. In 2014, Milo’s nearly tripled its distribution from 13 to 35 states and, today, distributes product in 45 states throughout the United States.
“It became critical to construct a second production facility to continue our exponential growth,” Wallwork said. “Tulsa’s family-centric culture, innovative workforce, and optimal location for the mass distribution of goods is fundamental in the expansion of our geographic footprint.” The new facility is scheduled to be operational in September 2020.
