Warehouse automation project will create 134 potential new jobs and strengthen distribution across Central Louisiana
ALEXANDRIA, La. — Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc. (Coca-Cola UNITED) will invest $106 million to modernize and expand its warehouse and distribution operations in Alexandria, Louisiana.
The project will introduce next-generation warehouse automation designed to improve distribution efficiency, accelerate customer order fulfillment and support Coca-Cola UNITED’s continued growth across Central Louisiana.
Project Highlights
- $106 million capital investment
- 50 direct new jobs with an average annual salary of $65,000
- 84 estimated indirect jobs
- 134 total potential new job opportunities
- 2,120 existing Louisiana jobs retained
- Construction scheduled to begin in February 2027
- Operations expected to begin in October 2028
- Advanced automation planned for the company’s facility at 7400 Coliseum Blvd.
The average salary for the project’s direct new positions is approximately 26% higher than the average wage in Rapides Parish.
Modernizing Coca-Cola UNITED’s Alexandria Distribution Facility
The expansion will modernize warehouse operations at Coca-Cola UNITED’s existing Alexandria facility. New automation technology will help the company process customer orders more efficiently, strengthen its regional distribution network and better serve businesses throughout Central Louisiana.
Coca-Cola UNITED’s Alexandria operation has served the region for 120 years and remains an important part of the company’s distribution system.
“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.”
A Long-Term Investment in Central Louisiana
Coca-Cola UNITED is one of the nation’s largest Coca-Cola bottlers and distributors, employing more than 10,000 associates at over 50 facilities across six Southeastern states.
Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said the Alexandria expansion reflects the growing confidence established companies have in Louisiana’s business environment.
“Across Louisiana, companies are reinvesting in their operations because they see long-term opportunity here,” 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.”
Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy described the project as a strong vote of confidence in the city and the broader Central Louisiana region.
“Coca-Cola—already heavily invested here—is increasing that commitment, showing a strong vote of confidence in the future of Alexandria and our region,” Roy said. “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.”
Supporting Jobs and Regional Economic Growth
Louisiana Central President and CEO Chris Masingill said the investment will produce benefits extending beyond Coca-Cola UNITED’s facility.
“Every expansion by an existing employer generates a ripple effect that benefits local suppliers, small businesses and families across our region,” Masingill said. “Louisiana Central is proud to support investments that build long-term economic prosperity and demonstrate the strength of public-private partnerships in Central Louisiana.”
Louisiana Incentives Support the Expansion
To secure the project in Alexandria, the state of Louisiana offered Coca-Cola UNITED a competitive incentives package that includes:
- Workforce recruitment and training support through LED FastStart
- $1 million from the Economic Development Award Program for infrastructure improvements
- Expected participation in Louisiana’s High Impact Jobs Program
Individuals interested in employment opportunities can register to receive notifications about Coca-Cola UNITED jobs, hiring events and company updates.
Louisiana businesses interested in contract and vendor opportunities connected to economic development projects can register at SourceLouisiana.com.
About Coca-Cola Bottling Company United
Founded in 1902 and headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc. is among the largest privately held bottlers and distributors of Coca-Cola products in the United States.
Now in its fifth generation of family leadership, Coca-Cola UNITED employs more than 10,000 associates across over 50 facilities in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee.
Learn more at CocaColaUnited.com.
About Louisiana Economic Development
Louisiana Economic Development is responsible for advancing capital investment, job creation and economic opportunity for Louisiana residents and employers of all sizes. Learn more at OpportunityLouisiana.com.
