Before deciding that Baton Rouge was the place to expand
business, Coca-Cola considered other areas to locate its regional
production and distribution hub. In the end, it was the company's
partnership with the city and state and infrastructure incentives
that sealed the deal.
"Baton Rouge is perfectly positioned to be a southeastern
regional hub for the Coca-Cola system, and we are excited to play a
key role in the expansion of our industry, as well as serve as a
driver of economic growth in our community," said Darian Chustz,
president of Baton Rouge Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
On April 28, 2009, a ceremony was held to mark the grand opening
of the new, 781,000-square-foot Baton Rouge facility. With a $178
million local investment, company officials expect the expansion to
add up to 113 new jobs by 2012 with an average annual salary of
$45,000.
The expansion increases local capability to include production
of POWERADE and VitaminWater, through the addition of three thermal
lines, for a total of six high-speed lines. Baton Rouge Coca-Cola
Bottling Co. is now supplying POWERADE and will soon supply
VitaminWater to Coca-Cola bottlers throughout Louisiana and into
neighboring states.
In order to secure the expanded production agreement with The
Coca-Cola Company, it was necessary to expand the project site's
infrastructure. Louisiana Economic Development Corporation approved
$1.4 million in performance-based assistance for two water wells
and other site improvements through the Economic Development Award
Program.
"Baton Rouge Coca-Cola Bottling Company's expansion in Louisiana
creates good-paying jobs, strengthens the local economy and
improves the quality of life for the people of this community,"
said Gov. Bobby Jindal. "In addition, this expansion today
highlights the importance our continued work to reform the economic
landscape in our state - through ethics reforms, tax cuts and
workforce development reforms - all aimed at making Louisiana a new
frontier of opportunity for business growth, success and job
creation."
The company will also take advantage of Louisiana
FastStart™, the state's customized workforce solutions
program.
The new building incorporates many energy conservation
initiatives and is the first Coca-Cola bottler to receive LEED
certification
