Our take: This is an established site that has attracted development on the Northaastern side of Charlotte along I-85. The megasite continues to attract warehouse and manufacturing, increasing the population of cities such as Concord and Kannapolis.

The Grounds Megasite, formerly known as the Philip Morris plant, is a significant industrial property located in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina. Spanning approximately 2,000 acres, this site has undergone substantial transformation from its origins as a tobacco manufacturing facility to a diversified industrial hub.

Development History:

• 1982: Philip Morris USA inaugurated the Concord plant, which became one of the world’s largest cigarette manufacturing facilities, employing thousands and significantly contributing to the local economy.
• 2007: Philip Morris announced the closure of the Concord plant as part of a company-wide restructuring, leading to the cessation of operations by 2009 and resulting in significant job losses in the region.
• 2011: The site was acquired by Victory Industrial Park LLC, a subsidiary of California-based real estate firm International Airport Centers, with plans to redevelop the property into a multi-tenant industrial park.
• 2015: The site was rebranded as “The Grounds at Concord,” aiming to attract a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and distribution.

Impact on Surrounding Areas:

The redevelopment of The Grounds Megasite is poised to significantly impact several cities and counties in the region:

• Cabarrus County: As the host county, Cabarrus is expected to experience substantial job creation, population growth, and increased economic activity.
• City of Concord: Located nearby, Concord anticipates economic benefits, including job opportunities and business expansion, due to its proximity to the megasite.
• Neighboring Counties: Counties such as Mecklenburg and Rowan may also see economic benefits due to their proximity to The Grounds Megasite.

Company Announcements and Agreements:

• Alevo Group (2014): In 2014, Alevo Group, a Swiss-based energy storage company, announced plans to invest $1 billion to establish its U.S. manufacturing operations at The Grounds, aiming to create 2,500 jobs. However, by 2017, Alevo filed for bankruptcy, ceasing operations and leaving the site vacant.
• Eastern Fence Company (2019): In 2019, Eastern Fence Company announced plans to establish a manufacturing facility at The Grounds, investing $17.5 million and creating 142 jobs. The company specializes in commercial and industrial fencing solutions.

Recent Developments:

• Infrastructure Improvements: To support the development of The Grounds Megasite, significant investments have been made in infrastructure, including road expansions, utility enhancements, and rail access improvements. These developments aim to make the site more attractive to potential investors and facilitate the operations of companies like Eastern Fence Company.

The strategic redevelopment of The Grounds Megasite underscores North Carolina’s commitment to fostering economic growth through industrial expansion. The site’s readiness and the significant investments by companies like Eastern Fence Company are set to transform the economic landscape of Cabarrus County and its neighboring regions.