Tourism Incentive Negotiation
Real Estate Advisory
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
MWM Consulting facilitated the relocation and expansion of RD1 Spirits by securing over $500,000 in state tourism incentives and negotiating a strategic lease agreement within The Commons, Lexington's newest mixed-use development.
RD1 Distillery at The Commons
Scheduled to open spring 2025, RD1 Distillery at The Commons represents a $4.8 million investment that will more than double the size of RD1's current operations.The two-story, 10,215-square-foot facility will feature outdoor seating areas on both levels, overlooking a historic water tower—a visible marker for the entertainment district.Visitors can look forward to interactive experiences highlighting Lexington’s bourbon history dating back to 1865, a glass-enclosed R&D lab for wood finishing, private tasting rooms, a VIP speakeasy, a craft cocktail bar, and event spaces.
THE CHALLENGE
RD1 Spirits' existing location was too small to provide the space and flexibility necessary for an optimal visitor experience.The company sought a new site that would accommodate their growth ambitions and enhance their presence on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®.Identifying a suitable location and securing the necessary funding for such an expansion presented significant challenges.
THE SOLUTION
Leveraging our real estate expertise, MWM Consulting identified The Commons as the ideal location for RD1's expansion. We successfully negotiated a lease agreement between RD1 Spirits and The Commons' developer, ensuring the new distillery would serve as the anchor tenant of this transformative 42-acre mixed-use development. Additionally, we guided RD1 through the complex process of applying for state tourism incentives, positioning the project to maximize potential awards.
THE RESULT
MWM Consulting secured $521,000 in state tourism incentives for RD1 Spirits, facilitating a $4.8 million investment that will create 11 full-time jobs.The new distillery is projected to attract tens of thousands of visitors annually, significantly boosting local tourism and contributing to Lexington's economy.This expansion not only enhances RD1's capacity but also strengthens Lexington's historic ties to the bourbon industry.
