How One Southeast Distillery & Hospitality Group Utilizes Shipping Containers for Onsite Operations

From Cargo to Cocktails: Explore How Firefly Distillery Uses Shipping Containers to Support Rail Jam Event

Snowboarder doing flip on a custom-built ramp elevated by several 20ft used containers

Vail Duggan

February 26, 2026

We recently had the opportunity to speak with Charleston native Jay Macmurphy, the General Manager of Firefly Distillery to learn about how decommissioned shipping containers are used to support the growing hospitality business.

About Firefly Distillery

Founded in 2005 on a tea plantation on Wadmalaw Island, SC, by Scott Newitt and Jim Irvin, Firefly Distillery revolutionized the spirits industry with the 2008 launch of the world’s first Sweet Tea Vodka. Driven by a unique collaboration of entrepreneurs, scientists, and winemakers, the distillery expanded thoughtfully while staying true to its southern roots. What began among rows of tea plants evolved into a thriving enterprise known for quality, creativity, and authenticity. As unassuming as a used container yet essential to daily operations, Macmurphy sits at the heart of the business, supporting the craftsmanship and logistics that keep production running smoothly. Behind the scenes, this vital hub reflects the same ingenuity and resourcefulness that defined Firefly’s earliest days. Today, the company’s reach extends far beyond its original plantation setting and includes a resort, distilleries in Kentucky and South Carolina and a flourishing portfolio of events in 2026.

Original members of Firefly standing next to red, branded truck

Key Milestones for the Lowcountry Family Run Business

Sweet Tea Revolution: On April 15, 2008, Firefly introduced Sweet Tea Vodka, which became a national sensation and was available in all 50 states by early 2009.
Expansion & Relocation: In 2018, the distillery moved from Wadmalaw Island to a larger, modern 20,000 sq ft facility in North Charleston to support growing operations. The current South Carolina Distillery features a tasting room, gift shop, and a 16-acre outdoor concert venue ("Live at Firefly").
Pivoting During the Pandemic: In 2020, the distillery shut down public operations to pivot during to become an approved manufacturer of hand sanitizer to support demand during Covid.
Live Nation Partnership: Firefly became an official Live Nation venue in 2023, enabling them to host acts on tour in partnership with promoter Rob Lamble.
Event Growth: Firefly will produce 60+ events and concerts in 2026, cementing its role as a premier entertainment destination in the Lowcountry.

How Containers Once Trusted to Move Goods Globally Help Support Events Locally

In January 2026, Firefly hosted Mex 1 Rail Jam, an annual one-night event featuring pro snowboarders, event sponsors, and nearly 50,000 pounds of snow to replicate a mini snowboard park with rails and jumps. No small feat for one of the flattest, coastal cities in the southeast. Top riders from across the country visited Charleston, SC, to throw down flips, spins, and rail tricks on a custom-built ramp elevated by several 20ft used containers. The event draws thousands to the area for the highly anticipated snow day at the beach. Action sport enthusiasts travel regionally to support the touring boarders, admire their talent and enjoy the North Charleston distillery.

Every event has moving parts, in the case of Rail Jam, logistics include constructing a durable 40ft ramp. In search of reliable, weatherproof onsite storage solutions, Firefly reached out to Eveon Containers to purchase additional resources to support their growing event operations. Macmurphy was able to secure several 20ft used shipping containers to serve as the structural base for the 40ft ramp build-out, while simultaneously providing cost-effective storage for event assets during the off season.

Two 20ft used shipping containers as the structural base for the 40ft snowboarding ramp build-out

"The Corten steel containers from Eveon are an important part of the distillery’s event operations. During Rail Jam, they blend into the talent village while providing secure, weather-resistant storage for key equipment. Because they’re durable and easy to move, the team can adjust quickly to changing needs without interrupting the guest experience." Macmurphy adds.

Flexible, Cost-Effective Event Storage

For growing businesses and event organizers who struggle to access traditional storage resources, repurposed shipping containers offers a practical, budget-friendly alternative. In the case of the Rail Jam, when not serving as a green room, the containers provide coverage and protection for ramp components, signage, chairs, and event infrastructure — delivering a flexible, weatherproof, and space-efficient storage solution between events. With low overhead and no long-term facility costs, container storage empowers lean teams to keep essential equipment organized, protected, and readily accessible season after season.