Coca-Cola Beverages Florida invests $10m in new Ocala sales hub; Strengthens local operations

Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC (Coke Florida) has officially inaugurated its Ocala Sales and Distribution Center, unveiling a $10 million investment in a 28,000-square-foot facility located off Silver Springs Boulevard. The launch, celebrated with a ribbon-cutting event attended by key local officials, signals a significant expansion of Coke Florida’s operations, creating a permanent base for its regional activities across Marion, Sumter, Citrus, Hernando, and Lake counties. Each year, this center will deliver over two million units of Coca-Cola products and partner brands, ensuring enhanced service and product availability across the Ocala area.

Strategic Investment in Ocala Market Reflects Strong Growth Prospects

Thomas Benford, President and COO of Coke Florida, underscored the expansion as part of the company’s broader investment strategy. Benford emphasized the Ocala market’s growth potential, adding that the new facility would enable Coke Florida to better meet regional demand while reinforcing the company’s commitment to community partnerships. Benford noted that the Ocala center’s creation aligns with Coke Florida’s mission to serve customers through improved efficiency and sustained local engagement.

Ocala’s Mayor, Ben Marciano, lauded Coke Florida’s investment, highlighting the economic benefits and job creation the expansion would bring. Marciano remarked that the new facility demonstrates Coke Florida’s commitment as a Florida-based, locally managed business to fostering economic opportunities, bolstering local partnerships, and driving community growth.

Community Impact and Sustainability Commitments Drive Coke Florida’s Mission

Coke Florida’s Ocala team, led by Territory General Manager John Horner, now includes over 100 associates in roles such as CDL drivers, Sales Account Managers, and Sales Merchandisers. Horner stated that the new facility, located closer to many employees’ homes, will allow Coke Florida to serve local customers more efficiently and strengthen ties with community partners.

Since its establishment in 2015, Coke Florida has committed to supporting local communities, particularly through initiatives in Sustainability, Education, and Economic Empowerment. In line with these values, Coke Florida recently partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Marion County to construct a home for an Ocala resident in need. Additionally, at the inauguration event, the company pledged to fully fund a technology lab upgrade for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Marion County and announced plans for its Technology team to conduct digital fluency workshops for students.

Supporting Local Sustainability Efforts Through “No Horsin’ Around”

In a further show of community commitment, Coke Florida contributed $2,500 to Marion County’s “No Horsin’ Around” program, aimed at reducing litter and promoting environmental stewardship. This donation aligns with Coke Florida’s dedication to environmental sustainability across its Florida operations.

A Leading Bottler with a Diverse Mission

Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC, the sixth-largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States, manages exclusive distribution rights across 47 Florida counties, encompassing major metropolitan regions like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando. Employing over 5,000 associates, the company operates four GreenCircle-certified manufacturing plants and 18 sales and distribution centers. Headquartered in Tampa, Coke Florida stands as one of the largest Black-owned enterprises in the country and holds Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification, underscoring its dedication to diversity and inclusion.