Richmond’s economic base once rested almost solely on heavy industry. Although that base is much more diversified now, there is still substantial and growing manufacturing activity in Richmond, as well as the distribution capability to go with it.

Galaxy Desserts is just one of many light manufacturing businesses that have migrated to Richmond. Artisan bread maker Grace Baking and art glassmaker Cohn-Stone also call Richmond home. Other manufacturers include Mulberry Neckwear, Palacek Furniture, Chevron, Zoe’s Cookies, and Casa Chicas, a maker and wholesale distributor of salsa, guacamole, and chips.

The distribution side is just as robust. For example, Bay Area Beverage, the exclusive distributor of branded beverages in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, has facilities in Richmond. International-Matex Tank Terminals (IMTT),a world-class provider of bulk liquid handling services, takes full advantage of Richmond’s:

• Highway access just off I-580, between the San Rafael Bridge and I-80.
• Rail spurs that connect with the Burlington–Northern/Santa Fe and Union Pacific Lines
• Recently dredged deepwater berths for tankers, within minutes of ocean anchorages
• Pipeline link to the Southern Pacific Pipeline network

The United States Postal Service and United Parcel Service also have large distribution facilities in Richmond. And, of course, The Port of Richmond is a major source of distribution activity. It is Northern California’s most diversified cargo handler, ranking number one in liquid bulk and automobile tonnage among ports on the San Francisco Bay.