Industry Impact Awards in Barren County recognize local businesses

CAVE CITY, Ky. – The annual Industry Impact Awards were held in Barren County, a way to recognize businesses that have made an impact on the area.

This year’s winners included the Expansion Awards, which recognize industries that have expanded operations into Barren County. Those winners include Amneal Pharmaceuticals, who recently increased their distribution footprint to four facilities on Beaver Trail, Aberdeen Drive, Carroll Knicely Drive and Commerce Drive in Glasgow.

They were joined by AvKARE, who has partnered with R&S Northeast to expand their distribution in Glasgow as well.

The final recipient was Welch Packaging-Glasgow, who acquired SOKY Pack & Pallet this year to expand their products to hardwood pallets and crates.

The New Business Awards were also given to those that have just started up in Barren County. The first of those is Cave City Distilling, formerly the Balance Distilling Company, which has the only rum made entirely in Kentucky.

They were joined by Phorus Industries, a leader in the hemp and CBD industry in the area, as well as River Metals Recycling, who purchased Mid-State Recycling this year to bring their five state-wide footprint to Barren County.

The Community Impact Award was awarded to 3A Composites, who have a huge hand in supporting local philanthropic efforts and volunteering.

SKYCTC was then on hand to announce the 2025 Industry of the Year, the Felker Brothers Corporation, who are a premier global source for stainless steel piping not just in Barren County but around the world.

Barren Inc. CEO Maureen Carpenter says businesses like these and new ones that are coming in are key to the success of Barren County.

“Every expansion, new company and new job supports our local economy. From boutiques and restaurants, professional services & banks to our local non-profits — generating a ripple effect that strengthens Barren County. Our industries have invested deeply in this community, and their success is Barren County’s success. I know I speak for our entire team when I say that we are excited about the opportunities ahead and the continued growth that is still to come,” she says.