You probably have at least one jar of Rao's Homemade sauce in your pantry at this very moment, and if you don't - you should. The beloved, family-owned Italian company that produces Rao's Homemade sauce chose Alma, Georgia as it's stateside location, and began the process in 2020.
La Regina Atlantica sources carrots, peppers, basil, onions, and meats from local Georgia, while the tomatoes and olive oil are imported from Italy through the Port of Savannah.
As soon as we pulled into the parking lot we were greeted by the delicious scent of garlic, onions, and tomato.
We learned from La Regina Atlantica COO, Emidio Rinaldi, on why they chose Georgia, how the company ensures the highest quality, and what life is like in the beautiful farmlands of Southeast Georgia.
The remarkable Rao's Homemade sauce is a culinary delight hailed as one of the best in the world. Their search for a United States location began in the uncertain times of Covid, when concerns over supply chains were prevalent. Despite these challenges, Rao's Homemade sauce never disappeared from the shelves, a testament to their team's resilience and commitment to loyal customers.
The La Regina Atlantica team chose to set up their plant in Alma for numerous reasons.
First, the six-hour time difference with their Italian parent company fosters seamless communication. Second, the proximity to the bustling Savannah port - the East Coast's second largest port - ensures efficient shipment of their raw materials. La Regina Atlantica is also nestled in a farm-rich environment where they source fresh, local ingredients for their sauces - a nod to the company's steadfast dedication to natural, quality products.
The journey to Alma wasn't without its share of serendipity. They were welcomed by local authorities and found a perfect site, large enough for future expansion and ready for to adapt for production. Most importantly, the community was eager to welcome them and the 250 new jobs they brought.
This strategic move was more than just a business decision - it was the forging of a new culinary marriage between the Alma community and the authentic Italian ingredients and processes. Five years later, the result is a delicious and authentic experience - the best Italian sauce in the world, now made in Italy and in Alma, Georgia.
This is La Regina Atlantica in Alma, Georgia - the home of a sauce quite unlike any other.
Workforce Development in Greene County
Nov 21, 2023