Kentwood, Mich. -- Hudsonville-based beverage co-packer Proper Beverage Co. plans to expand in Kentwood by mid-2026 at a 300,000-square-foot manufacturing facility.
The company will also still be operating at its Hudsonville headquarters.
Proper Beverage expects the expansion in Kentwood to generate 100 jobs initially. But CEO Kevin Clement told WOOD Radio in a telephone interview that the company plans to add 125 jobs over the next 12 to 18 months. So, about 400 total jobs within five years.
He noted that the building is in a good geographic location for manufacturing.
"In proximity to the (Gerald R. Ford International) airport, in proximity to the highway access there at M-6 and M-37," Clement said. "In addition to that, the city's been great to work with. The roads are Grade A. So, we're able to move the semi-trucks through there unencumbered. And the proximity to other manufacturing or large warehousing."
Proper Beverage said in a news release it is increasing its production capacity to broaden its capabilities and meet the growing demands from beverage brands nationwide. And the highway and other infrastructure can accommodate that growth.
"The whole area is kind of set up to facilitate industrial production and movement of goods," Clement said. "And we're thrilled to be part of that. It's going to make moving a large volume of manufactured goods through the area much easier on us and our customers."
Here is more information provided in a news release via Seyferth PR:
In addition to initially creating 100 new jobs, the Kentwood expansion marks a major milestone in Proper Beverage Co.’s growth and innovation. Expected to begin operations in mid-2026, the facility is designed to operate with a capacity of 225 million cans per year. The expanded production capacity reinforces the company’s continued investment in American-made manufacturing and local job creation.
Proper Beverage Co. has invested in U.S.-made machinery, which will allow for wider range of beverages, including alcoholic drinks, mocktails, sodas, energy drinks and better-for-you alternatives to be packaged at the facility. Operating at full capacity, the new facility will employ 400 individuals, further strengthening the region’s manufacturing economy.
“Choosing American-made equipment ensures we can uphold the highest production standards while supporting American manufacturers and jobs,” said Brian Hirsch, president of Proper Beverage Co. “It is an investment in both quality and community.”
The new facility also advances the company’s commitment to sustainability. One-way keg options that are recycled after use, is among the company’s new offerings. The kegs allow for reduced logistics and costs, while minimizing water and chemical use, for a more sustainable packaging alternative.
Founded on the belief that small and mid-size brands deserve the same care, quality and creative integrity as the industry’s largest players, Proper Beverage Co. has built its reputation on partnership and flexibility. “Our commitment to quality is paying off in a way that allows us to serve the fluctuating market more consistently,” said Kevin Clement, CEO of Proper Beverage Co. “We’re building for the future with the same focus on reliability, innovation and responsible growth that has guided us from the start.”
Customers remain the focus of the company’s growth. The new facility will feature a dedicated customer care suite, providing space for collaboration and on-site visits. This addition reflects Proper Beverage Co.’s ongoing commitment to partnership, transparency and providing an exceptional experience from concept to production.
The company’s existing Hudsonville, Michigan facility remains open, continuing to serve start-up, small and mid-sized beverage brands with flexible, scalable production and support.
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Founded in 2018, Proper Beverage Co. is a Michigan-based manufacturer specializing in full-service beverage co-packing for brands of all sizes. The company has expanded its capabilities and reach, supporting beverage brands across the country with reliable, high-quality co-packing solutions. Proper Beverage Co. delivers flexible, high-quality co-packing solutions spanning alcoholic beverages, mocktails, sodas, energy drinks, and better-for-you options. With facilities in Hudsonville and Kentwood, Proper Beverage continues to invest in American-made manufacturing, sustainability, and a people-first approach to doing things the proper way. For more information, visit www.ProperBeverage.com.
A rendering of the facility where Proper Beverage Co. will be operating by mid-2026 near 60th St./East Paris Avenue in Kentwood, MI.Photo: Photo courtesy: Proper Beverage Co. via Seyferth PR.
A rendering for the facility where Proper Beverage Co. will be operating by mid-2026. It will still be operating at its Hudsonville headquarters, as well.Photo: Photo courtesy: Proper Beverage Co. via Seyferth PR.