ALEXANDRIA – Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc. (UNITED) announced a $106 million investment to modernize and expand its warehouse and distribution operations, bringing next-generation automation to Central Louisiana while supporting the company’s continued growth.
The company is expected to create 50 direct new jobs with an average annual salary of $65,000, 26% above the average Rapides Parish wage, while retaining 2,120 current positions. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in an additional 84 indirect new jobs, for a total of 134 potential new job opportunities in the Central Region.
“Across Louisiana, companies are reinvesting in their operations because they see long-term opportunity here,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “Coca-Cola UNITED’s continued investment in Alexandria reflects what we’re seeing across our state: companies have choices, and they’re choosing Louisiana again and again.”
The project includes advanced warehouse automation at Coca-Cola UNITED’s existing facility at 7400 Coliseum Blvd. The upgrades will modernize warehouse operations, increasing efficiency, improving order fulfillment and strengthening the company’s distribution network.
“Our Alexandria operation has served Central Louisiana for 120 years,” Coca-Cola UNITED West Region Vice President Scott McCallister said. “This expansion reflects our long-term commitment to Louisiana, our associates and our customers. By investing, we can better serve the region while creating quality jobs and strengthening our distribution network.”
Coca-Cola UNITED is one of the nation’s largest Coca-Cola bottlers and distributors, operating more than 50 locations across six Southeastern states. The Alexandria facility has served Central Louisiana for 120 years and continues to play an important role in the company’s distribution network.
“What a great indication of our direction the expansion of Coca-Cola’s local facility demonstrates.” City of Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy said. “Coca-Cola—already heavily invested here—is increasing that commitment showing a strong vote of confidence in the future of Alexandria and our region. Existing industries are the foundation of our economy, and when companies choose to grow here, they create new opportunities and reinforce our reputation as a great place to do business.”
Construction is expected to begin in February 2027, with operations expected to begin in October 2028.
“Coca-Cola’s continued investment sends a strong message that Alexandria, and our entire region, is a place where established companies can grow and succeed. Expansions like this strengthen our manufacturing and distribution economy, create new opportunities, and reinforce confidence in our business climate,” Louisiana Central President & CEO Chris Masingill said. “Every expansion by an existing employer generates a ripple effect that benefits local suppliers, small businesses, and families across our region. Louisiana Central is proud to support investments that build long-term economic prosperity and demonstrate the strength of public-private partnerships in Central Louisiana.”
To win the project in Alexandria, the state of Louisiana offered Coca-Cola UNITED a competitive incentives package that includes the comprehensive workforce development solutions of LED FastStart and $1 million from the Economic Development Award Program (EDAP) for infrastructure improvements. The company is also expected to participate in the state’s High Impact Jobs program.
Register here(opens external page in a new window) to be notified about Coca-Cola UNITED job opportunities, hiring events and news updates. Louisiana companies, make sure your business is registered at SourceLouisiana.com(opens external page in a new window) to enter the pipeline for contract and vendor opportunities with development projects statewide.
About Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc.
Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc. (UNITED), founded in 1902 and headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, is among the largest bottlers and distributors of Coke products in the U.S. Now with its fifth generation of family working in the business, Coca-Cola UNITED has more than 10,000 associates located in more than 50 facilities across six southeastern states (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee). Historically significant franchises in our Coca-Cola UNITED family include Chattanooga, the world’s first Coca-Cola bottler; Atlanta, home of the worldwide Coca-Cola System; and Columbus, Georgia, development site of the original Coca-Cola formula. Learn more at cocacolaunited.com(opens external page in a new window) and follow us on Facebook(opens external page in a new window), Instagram(opens external page in a new window) and LinkedIn(opens external page in a new window).
About LED
Louisiana Economic Development is responsible for driving capital investment, job creation and economic opportunity for the people of Louisiana and employers of all sizes. Explore how LED is positioning Louisiana to win at OpportunityLouisiana.com(opens external page in a new window).