Coca-Cola Consolidated has invested $90 million to optimize its facility in Columbus, Ohio. The 60-acre campus includes a new 400,000-ft2 distribution and warehouse facility, and two 15,000 ft2 buildings to house equipment repair services and fleet maintenance. As a part of the project, the company invested in sustainability processes, new technology and a designated learning center. The company hosted a grand opening with local dignitaries to showcase the new facilities.
The Columbus warehouse will handle more than 16 million cases of product a year and, on average, about 75,000 cases a day. The new equipment includes a Vertique system, a semi-automated solution that improves “warehouse productivity, efficiency, accuracy and working conditions.” The campus also includes a new equipment services facility and a new fleet shop for Coca-Cola Consolidated’s transportation subsidiary, Red Classic Transit.
Sustainability efforts include LED lighting, infrastructure for future EV charging stations, cardboard and plastic compactors and redesigned HVAC systems in its fleet shop. In addition, Coca-Cola Consolidated partners with Atlantic Packaging to recycle stretch film.
Coca-Cola Consolidated added 35 new team members because of the expansion.
What they are saying
“The investment we’ve made here in Columbus is evidence of our focus on growth in Columbus,” said Sam Meiner, vice president, Midwest market unit, at Coca-Cola Consolidated, in a release. “This commitment to our teammates and production capabilities is a long-term dedication to improving how we serve the world’s best brands and flavors to our communities and the people of Ohio.”
