Birmingham Coca-Cola Plant Expands with $330 Million Investment
Birmingham, AL – A significant development is underway at the Coca-Cola Bottling Co. United Inc. plant as it embarks on a more than $330 million project to expand its headquarters and warehouse facilities. The initiative is spearheaded by Mike Suco, the CEO who has been with the company for nearly 30 years.
This ambitious project, which broke ground this summer, aims to integrate cutting-edge technology into the organization’s operations while also creating a modern work environment. The Coca-Cola Bottling Co. United Inc. is one of Birmingham’s largest family-owned businesses, having grown substantially during Suco’s leadership, particularly over the past two decades.
A Commitment to Community and Culture
Suco, who comes from a Cuban background and is fluent in Spanish, expresses a deep appreciation for Birmingham. He remarked on the positive changes he observed upon returning to the city after a five-year absence, particularly highlighting the economic development and investments in the downtown area.
“I think we’re on the correct path as a city,” Suco stated. “You get out of it exactly what you put in. The work ethic that someone shows up with is critically important.” He emphasizes that during challenging times, consumers tend to gravitate toward brands they know and trust, which has proven beneficial for Coca-Cola during recent economic fluctuations.
Fostering a Culture of Learning
A strong focus on employee development has been a cornerstone of Coca-Cola’s strategy. Suco noted that they want employees to view their roles as careers rather than just jobs. The company’s culture of learning initiative aims to provide pathways for growth within the organization, with promising early results showing a reduction in turnover for front-line positions.
“Wherever you’re at today is not where you can be five years from now,” Suco explained. The leadership team has laid out a roadmap for career progression, recognizing the importance of retaining experienced employees to enhance customer interactions and brand loyalty.
Technological Innovations
The expansion project will include implementing semi-automated warehousing technology, enhancing working conditions for warehouse associates. New systems, such as the Vertique technology, are expected to improve order accuracy and product freshness, marking significant advancements in efficiency.
On the sales front, Suco is excited about incorporating AI technology to optimize ordering processes and customer engagement through digital applications, allowing for better service and responsiveness to client needs.
A Focus on Local Leadership
Suco credits the strong leadership within Coca-Cola Bottling Co. United for its culture of servant leadership, which fosters a positive working environment. He expressed gratitude for the incredible leaders he has worked alongside, emphasizing their commitment to both employees and the Birmingham community.
A Bright Future for Birmingham
Looking ahead, Suco is enthusiastic about the future of Coca-Cola in Birmingham. He believes that investing in people is paramount for ensuring long-term success. “The more experienced people we have in our organization, the better off we are,” he said, highlighting the connection between employee stability and customer trust.
As the company rolls out its ambitious plans, both the Birmingham business community and Coca-Cola employees look forward to the positive impact of this multi-million-dollar investment. It marks not only a significant win for the local economy but also reinforces Coca-Cola’s commitment to its associates and the community.
