Georgia Ports welcomes MANA Nutrition’s new food processing facility
2024-07-20
Revolutionizing Food Aid: MANA Nutrition's Groundbreaking Expansion in Pooler, Georgia
MANA Nutrition, a leading provider of life-saving nutritional products, has taken a significant step forward in its mission to combat global hunger. The company recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new state-of-the-art food processing facility in Pooler, Georgia, marking a pivotal moment in its supply chain expansion.
Unlocking New Possibilities in the Fight Against Malnutrition
Expanding Production Capacity and Storage Capabilities
The new 320,000 square-foot warehouse in Pooler, Georgia, situated just four miles from the Port of Savannah, will enable MANA Nutrition to double its current production capacity while adding substantial new storage capabilities. This strategic location near a major port will streamline the company's distribution and export operations, positioning it as a global leader in the supply of life-saving nutritional products.
Transforming an Unfinished Warehouse into an Advanced Food Processing Facility
Design-build firm A M King will oversee the transformation of the unfinished warehouse into an advanced food processing facility, which is slated to open in the first quarter of 2025. This state-of-the-art facility will be dedicated to the production of MANA's Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) and Ready-to-Use Supplemental Food (RUSF), two revolutionary products that have the potential to make a significant impact in the fight against malnutrition worldwide.
Complementing the Existing Fitzgerald, Georgia, Production and Storage Facility
The new Pooler facility will complement MANA Nutrition's existing production and storage facility in Fitzgerald, Georgia, further strengthening the company's supply chain and ensuring a reliable and efficient distribution network. This strategic expansion will enable MANA to meet the growing global demand for its life-saving nutritional products, ultimately reaching more communities in need.
Diversifying Product Offerings and Expanding Capabilities
MANA Nutrition CEO Mark Moore explains that the company plans to dedicate approximately 30% of the new Pooler facility to the production of products not currently manufactured at the Fitzgerald site. This diversification will allow MANA to explore new opportunities and expand its product portfolio, further enhancing its ability to address the diverse nutritional needs of communities worldwide.
Leveraging the Efficiency and Scale of the Port of Savannah
The proximity of the new Pooler facility to the Port of Savannah, the most efficient port in the region, is a significant advantage for MANA Nutrition. The company shipped over 1,000 containers through the Port of Savannah last year, and with the new warehouse, it is poised to become one of the largest exporters of RUTF in the world. This strategic location will enable MANA to streamline its distribution and reach more people in need with its life-saving products.
Celebrating a Shared Vision and Commitment to Global Nutrition
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by MANA Nutrition leaders and employees, as well as representatives from the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA). GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch expressed his congratulations to MANA Nutrition, acknowledging the company's growth and success, and the importance of its work in preventing global hunger. GPA Board Chairman Kent Fountain also highlighted the organization's commitment to supporting its customers, like MANA Nutrition, in reaching vital international markets efficiently and effectively.This groundbreaking event marks a significant milestone in MANA Nutrition's journey to expand its reach and impact in the fight against malnutrition. By leveraging its new state-of-the-art facility in Pooler, Georgia, the company is poised to double its production capacity, diversify its product offerings, and streamline its distribution, ultimately delivering life-saving nutritional solutions to communities in need around the world.