The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

US-based retail chain Walmart has announced the establishment of a new milk processing facility in Valdosta, Georgia. Scheduled to commence operations in 2025, the new facility is set to create nearly 400 employment opportunities within the Valdosta area. The decision reflects Walmart's commitment to meeting the surging demand for premium milk products while reinforcing the resilience of its supply chain and enhancing transparency in sourcing. The facility, slated for groundbreaking later this year, is underpinned by a focus on innovation and a steadfast commitment to sourcing ingredients locally. It will be responsible for the processing and packaging of a diverse range of milk options, including gallon, half gallon, whole, 2%, 1%, skim and 1% chocolate milk. These products will be made available under Walmart's "Great Value" and Sam's Club's "Member's Mark" brands, catering to over 750 Walmart and Sam's Club outlets throughout the southeast region. The facility is an extension of the company's broader strategy to fortify its supply chain, enhance product quality and ensure a more transparent customer experience. In 2018, the retail giant began its journey into milk processing with the opening of its first facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Since then, it has made significant investments in this space, including the launch of its initial case-ready beef facility in Thomasville, Georgia, and the construction of a second facility in Olathe, Kansas. These efforts are complemented by equity investments and long-term commercial agreements with Sustainable Beef LLC, a rancher-owned enterprise, and vertical farming company, Plenty.