Gray and Morinaga Reach Significant Construction Milestone Together
On June 30, 2025, a remarkable event took place in Mebane, North Carolina, where Gray Construction and Morinaga America Foods celebrated a significant milestone in the construction of a new manufacturing facility. This event marked the completion of a critical phase in the construction process known as the 'topping out' ceremony, during which the final beam was placed atop the structure. Such ceremonies are steeped in tradition and symbolize the completion of the major structural work of a building.
Gray Construction, a fully integrated design-builder specializing in various sectors including construction, engineering, and real estate, was chosen by Morinaga to handle this ambitious project. The partnership between Gray and Morinaga reflects a commitment to providing comprehensive solutions tailored to unique industry needs. According to Brett Goode, executive vice president of the food and beverage market at Gray, this milestone not only signifies progress but also affirms the strength of their collaborative efforts to meet the growing demands of the confectionery industry.
The new facility will expand Morinaga's capacity to produce its immensely popular HI-CHEW candies, one of the fastest-growing non-chocolate candies in the United States. With an impressive size of 130,000 square feet, the expansion aims to bolster Morinaga's footprint in the U.S. market and enhance production capabilities. With the combined expertise of Gray's team in handling construction, engineering, and automation services — along with their pledge to procure and install essential process equipment — they aim to meet the increasing customer demand effectively.
Once operational, the facility is expected to create over 200 new jobs in the local area, contributing positively to the regional economy. As the project progresses, it becomes clear that both companies are not just interested in expanding their operations, but also in fostering community development through job creation.
Since its inception in 1960, Gray has consistently expanded its portfolio and reputation as a national leader in the design and construction space. Its comprehensive service offerings include everything from design and engineering to the implementation of advanced automation systems. This extensive expertise allows Gray to drive innovation and deliver value across all phases of a project.
As the construction advances towards completion, both teams remain focused on the shared goal of establishing a facility that will be a cornerstone for Morinaga's future growth in the confectionery sector. The collaboration between Gray and Morinaga stands as a testament to the power of partnership and the importance of teamwork in the modern construction landscape. With every beam and concrete block, they are not just building a facility; they are shaping the future of the confectionery industry in the United States.
As the project continues to develop, stakeholders and community members alike eagerly anticipate the inauguration of this state-of-the-art manufacturing hub that promises to deliver delicious treats to candy lovers across the nation. The topping out ceremony was a proud moment for all involved and signals an exciting new chapter for both Gray and Morinaga America Foods in their journey ahead.