Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC (Coke Florida) has officially opened its new Ocala Sales and Distribution Center, marking a significant milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by associates, local officials, and community partners.
“This new facility is key to our ongoing investment strategy, enhancing both our distribution capabilities and service offerings,” said Thomas Benford, president and COO of Coke Florida.
The 28,000-square-foot facility, located off Silver Springs Boulevard and NW 52nd Avenue, represents a $10 million investment by Coke Florida. It will serve as a permanent hub for local operations and strengthens the company’s commitment to the region. The facility will help deliver over 2 million units of Coca-Cola products and partner brands annually across Marion, Sumter, Citrus, Hernando, and Lake counties.
“We’re seeing tremendous growth potential in the Ocala market. This expansion will improve our service, product availability, and reinforce our partnerships in the community,” said Benford.
Mayor Ben Marciano of Ocala joined the celebration, noting the positive impact the expansion will have on local development, job creation, and economic growth. “As a locally owned, Florida-based company, Coke Florida’s investment is a huge opportunity for our community,” said Mayor Marciano.
The new facility also benefits Coke Florida’s workforce. The company employs over 100 associates in various roles, including CDL drivers, sales account managers, and warehouse staff. “Our associates are excited about the new facility’s location, which will help them continue offering excellent service to our customers,” said John Horner, Coke Florida’s Territory General Manager for Ocala.
Since its establishment in 2015, Coke Florida has been a strong community partner, focusing on sustainability, education, and economic empowerment. In 2023, the company partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Marion County to build a home for a deserving local resident.
During the ribbon-cutting event, Coke Florida also announced several community-focused initiatives, including a donation of laptops and educational resources to upgrade the technology lab for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Marion County. The company’s Technology team will also lead digital skills training courses for local students. Additionally, a $2,500 contribution was made to Marion County’s No Horsin’ Around sustainability program, aimed at reducing litter and promoting environmental stewardship.
About Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC
Coca-Cola Beverages Florida (Coke Florida) is the sixth-largest Coca-Cola bottler in the U.S., serving 21 million consumers across 47 Florida counties. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Tampa, Coke Florida employs over 5,000 associates and operates GreenCircle certified manufacturing facilities and sales centers. It is one of the largest Black-owned businesses in the U.S. and was named a US Best Managed Company by Deloitte-Private and The Wall Street Journal for three consecutive years. Learn more at www.cokeflorida.com.
