Bittermilk expands Charleston County operations

Bittermilk Bottling Co. (Bittermilk), a manufacturer of nonalcoholic beverage products, today announced it is expanding its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $8.2 million investment will create 12 new jobs.  

Founded in 2013, Bittermilk produces various brands of nonalcoholic cocktail mixers and complex syrups. The family-owned and -operated business uses all-natural ingredients to manufacture the products at its current facility in North Charleston.  

Bittermilk is relocating to a new 12,000-square-foot facility, located at 5340 Savannah Highway in Ravenel, allowing the company to significantly increase production capacity and continue to meet growing demand.

Operations are expected to be online in summer 2026. Individuals interested in joining the Bittermilk team should contact the company (drink@bittermilk.com). 

QUOTES 

We’re proud to continue growing Bittermilk in Charleston County, where our business began and where we’ve built strong roots over the past two decades. Being born and raised in Charleston, and growing up in the food and beverage industry here, has given us a deep appreciation for this community. It’s an honor to keep building our future here while continuing to make high-quality, American-made products.” 

-Bittermilk Owner and Co-Founder MariElena Raya 

“Our new Ravenel facility will give us the space to expand our production capacity, create new jobs, and continue crafting the high-quality products our customers know and love. As a family business, we’re building a legacy our children can grow into and a company that continues to support our employees, vendors and retailers. We’re equally excited to use this space to collaborate with like-minded brands on custom projects that fuel mutual growth.” 

-Bittermilk Owner and Co-Founder Joe Raya 

“Bittermilk’s expansion in Charleston County is another example of the success South Carolina businesses are finding across our state. The addition of 12 new jobs is a win for the Lowcountry, and we congratulate Bittermilk on their continued success.”
-Gov. Henry McMaster   

“Congratulations to Bittermilk on expanding its manufacturing operations in the Lowcountry. With an investment of $8.2 million in Charleston County, the company is strengthening South Carolina’s economic development landscape.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III 
 

“Bittermilk is a South Carolina success story, and their expansion is great news for the state. Forward-looking small agribusinesses are essential to the future of the industry, and we celebrate their growth.”  

-Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers 

“Bittermilk’s expansion underscores how Charleston County is both an ideal location to establish operations and plan next step opportunities that support long-term growth. This investment in Ravenel brings significant potential for future facility development, while creating highquality workforce opportunities and new amenities for the community.”
-Charleston County Council Chairman Joe Boykin 

“Bittermilk’s expansion is a powerful example of how strategic planning for long-term growth defines Charleston County’s economic success. This project strengthens our local talent pipeline, expands opportunities for workforce advancement, and strengthens quality of place experience for residents. We look forward to welcoming Bittermilk’s expansion to the Ravenel community.” 

-Charleston County Economic Development Director Merle Johnson 

“The town of Ravenel is excited to welcome Bittermilk to our growing business community.  Bittermilk brings a commitment to excellence and a passion to grow with Ravenel and integrate into our community. They will bring high-quality production jobs that will provide future employment opportunities for our residents.” 

-Town of Ravenel Mayor Steve Tumbleston 

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