Weldon Mills Distillery – Business NC 2024 Small Business of the Year

Weldon Mills Distillery has been named Business North Carolina’s 2024 Small Business of the Year, marking a significant milestone for this rapidly growing enterprise. Since its inception in 2018, the distillery has garnered national acclaim for its award-winning bourbon and innovative approach to spirit production. Co-founders Bruce Tyler and Michael Hinderliter transformed a 19th-century grist mill and a 1950s sewing factory into a thriving distillery.  With a $2 million investment and a unique blend of entrepreneurial vision and historic preservation, Weldon Mills produces over 30,000 gallons of small-batch bourbon annually, with plans to expand capacity to 160,000 gallons next year.

Nominated by the Halifax County Economic Development Commission, the distillery’s success goes beyond production, blending community impact with savvy marketing and strategic growth. Employing 35 people and generating over $4 million in annual revenue, Weldon Mills has not only revitalized its hometown but continues to expand with ventures such as Weldon Mills Distillery Durham and key venues in Halifax County including the Weldon Mills Theater and a 30,000-seat outdoor amphitheater. These investments highlight Weldon Mills’ commitment to boosting the local economy while establishing itself as a business leader in North Carolina.

The full Business North Carolina Magazine article can be found at this link: https://businessnc.com/a-simple-make-booze-text-led-to-a-thriving-eastern-north-carolina-distillery/