The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) and First Quality Baby Products have been awarded the 2025 Large Community Award by the Georgia Developers Association (GEDA) for the expansion of First Quality Baby Products in Macon-Bibb County. The award was presented at the GEDA 2025 Awards Dinner held at the Fox Theater in Atlanta, Georgia.

The GEDA Deal of the Year Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in attracting or expanding businesses that drive economic growth and reflect strong community support. MBCIA’s recognition highlights its leadership in advancing Macon-Bibb County as a premier location 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,” said MBCIA Chairman Robby Fountain. “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.”

Representatives from First Quality Baby Products and the MBCIA celebrate receiving GEDA's 2025 Large Community Deal of the Year Award for the First Quality expansion.

The MBCIA and First Quality Baby Products teams are recognized on stage as GEDA presents the 2025 Large Community Deal of the Year Award for the First Quality expansion.
“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, First Quality Absorbent Hygiene Division. “This reflects the incredible support we have received from MBCIA, the State of Georgia, and the local community, whose partnership has been essential in making this possible. We are especially grateful to our dedicated team members in Macon, whose commitment to quality and excellence drives our success every day. Together, we are building a stronger future for our company, our community, and the families we serve.”

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

“Partnerships like this…those that create significant milestones for an entire community…are what make me so proud of Macon-Bibb County,” says Mayor Lester Miller. “It’s a great day for First Quality, for Macon-Bibb, and for Georgia when we earn recognition for our work to increase job opportunities, improve salaries, and create a brighter future for hundreds of people and families."

The GEDA award recognizes Macon-Bibb County’s ability to attract and retain global companies, enhance regional competitiveness, and foster meaningful public-private partnerships that deliver lasting community benefits.

With this recognition, MBCIA reaffirms its commitment to creating a thriving business climate where companies and communities prosper together.