Macon-Bibb community celebrated as MBCIA and First Quality receive award

Award recognizes First Quality’s expansion and Macon-Bibb County’s growing role as a manufacturing and investment hub.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) and First Quality Baby Products have received the 2025 Large Community Award from the Georgia Developers Association for First Quality’s expansion in Macon-Bibb County. The award was presented recently at the GEDA 2025 Awards Dinner at the Fox Theater in Atlanta.

The GEDA Deal of the Year Awards recognize major achievements in attracting or expanding businesses that drive local economic growth. According to MBCIA, the recognition highlights their work positioning Macon-Bibb County as a leading destination for business investment.

“Being recognized with the GEDA Deal of the Year Award for First Quality’s expansion in Macon-Bibb County is a true honor and a testament to the strength and attractiveness of our local business environment,” MBCIA Chairman Robby Fountain said. “MBCIA has partnered closely with First Quality over the years to support their growth, and this recognition highlights the confidence businesses place in our community as a place to invest and thrive.”

“We are honored that First Quality’s expansion and the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority have been recognized with the GEDA Deal of the Year Award,” said Allen Bodford, president of the First Quality Absorbent Hygiene Division. He credited MBCIA, the State of Georgia and the local community for their partnership and praised the Macon team for its commitment to quality and excellence.

“Together, we are building a stronger future for our company, our community, and the families we serve,” Bodford said.

In May 2024, First Quality Baby Products agreed to invest $418 million to expand its facility and create 600 new jobs in Macon-Bibb County. The expansion is located at 2108 Avondale Mill Road.