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Coca-Cola Consolidated has announced a $25 million investment aimed at enhancing its manufacturing facility in West Memphis, Arkansas.

The investment will enable the West Memphis facility to ramp up its production from 26 million to 29 million cases annually. Key to this expansion is the introduction of advanced blow mold technology, which automates the bottle-making process using 100% recycled plastic preforms.

This investment not only streamlines production but also allows for the customisation of bottle sizes, improving overall efficiency and reducing reliance on external suppliers.

Coca-Cola Consolidated plans to roll out new lighter-weight bottle designs across its product lines as part of a broader sustainability initiative.

The updated 20oz Coca-Cola bottles will be manufactured entirely from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), aligning with industry trends toward environmentally friendly packaging.

Additionally, a new consistent bottle design, dubbed the Harmony bottle, will be introduced across various brands, including Dr. Pepper and Fanta.

“Coca-Cola Consolidated is committed to improving our operational capabilities while prioritizing sustainability,” said Steve Funderburke, VP of manufacturing. “This investment reflects our long-term strategy to enhance our service to customers and strengthen our community ties.”

The expansion is also expected to create jobs, with plans to hire 19 new employees, including operators and quality control staff.

This move is part of a broader economic impact strategy, as Coca-Cola Consolidated has invested approximately $438 million into Arkansas, supporting over 7,300 jobs statewide.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon highlighted the significance of this investment for the local economy. “Coca-Cola Consolidated’s commitment to West Memphis not only boosts our economy but also showcases our city as a hub for manufacturing innovation,” McClendon stated.

Coca-Cola Consolidated, the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the US, operates multiple facilities across the Southeast, Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions.

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