Mobile-based FGP Holding, which owns Frios Gourmet Pops and FGP Manufacturing LLC, announced plans for a rapid expansion and production ramp-up at their new facility in Mobile. FGP announced that Frios will move into the former Crown Products facility at 3107 Halls Mill Road in Mobile.
Mobile-native Cliff Kennedy bought the Gadsden startup company in 2018 and moved its headquarters to Mobile. Kennedy said that the $20 million expansion will produce approximately 200 jobs for the Mobile area.
“Mobile is the perfect place to grow our dream of being a dynamic player in the frozen novelty industry,” Kennedy said. “Through the economic support and strategic location of our city, I feel lucky to be able to make this dream a reality in my hometown.
“I am excited for the future and the possibilities that lie ahead,” Kennedy said.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey (R) praised the company’s growth plans.
“I’m thrilled to see the entrepreneurial success that Cliff Kennedy has achieved in Mobile and excited that the growth of his enterprise is translating into new jobs and opportunities in his hometown,” Ivey said. “This is great news for the community and for the state because it shows what’s possible in Alabama.”
Economic developer Dr. Nicole Jones told 1819 News, “Frios Gourmet Pops is an example of the American Dream, realized right here in Alabama. The company started in the founder’s garage in Gadsden, sold to Mobile native Clif Kennedy in 2018, and quickly became a multi-million dollar phenomenon, now franchised and headquartered in a 130,000 square foot facility in Mobile. Manufacturing facilities like this bring jobs, directly and indirectly. Frios’ newest expansion will have a tremendous economic impact on the Port City as well as the entire state of Alabama.”
“Having a Mobile-based company expand in our community has always been a goal of our economic development efforts,” said David Rodgers, vice president of economic development at the Mobile Chamber. “The success that FGP has had in Mobile is a testament to the company’s leadership and local support.”
This expansion will enlarge the company’s production space from 30,000 square feet to 130,000 square feet.
“Alabama offers an attractive environment for all kinds of people who dream of building a business and creating a legacy with a successful venture.”
FGP is a manufacturer of private label and co-packed frozen novelties for national brands and retailers. It produces stick products, cones and sandwiches for companies that are looking to outsource their manufacturing.
Frios Gourmet Pops is a mobile franchise company that sells gourmet popsicles from tie-dye wrapped vans. It currently has over 50 locations across the country, and it is expected to have over 100 by the end of 2022.
Greg Canfield is the Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.
“Alabama offers an attractive environment for all kinds of people who dream of building a business and creating a legacy with a successful venture,” said Canfield. “That is exactly what Cliff Kennedy has done, and I look forward to witnessing the next chapter of his company’s growth in Mobile.”
Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson said that FGP’s expansion project highlights how Mobile can support entrepreneurs as they start and grow a business.
“We are thrilled to support the expansion of FGP, which will add 200 new jobs and continue to set this locally headquartered company up for future success and expansion,” Stimpson said.
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandon.moseley@1819News.com.
