Natalie Arrowood, Author at Coca-Cola Consolidated

Coke Consolidated Recognized with Brandon Hall Excellence Award

Natalie Arrowood2023-09-07T10:27:22-04:00September 7, 2023|Company News|

Coke Consolidated is committed to developing the next generation of diverse servant leaders. Over the past two years, 320 leaders have actively taken part in our Accelerated Leadership Development programs, including Emerging Leaders, Next Level Leadership, and Leadership Academy. It is with great humility that we announce we are Silver Medal recipients of the Brandon Hall Group Excellence Award for:

Best Advance in Leadership: Accelerated Leadership Development empowering the next generation of servant leaders with specific focus on our Leadership Academy, Next Level Leadership and Emerging Leaders programs.
Best Advance in the Flow of Work: Lifecycle of a Load. Specific focus on our Red Classic & InfoProprograms.
Best New Onboarding program: Transportation 101 with specific focus on our Red Classic & InfoPro program.

These programs constitute a vital element of our talent strategy, designed to offer challenging learning experiences aimed at expanding business and financial expertise, promoting cross-functional collaboration, cultivating enterprise-wide and systemic leadership, fostering strategic thinking, and developing a comprehensive general manager mindset.

We’re honored by this award which recognizes our pursuit of excellence and demonstrates our investment in creating best-in-class learning experiences for our teammates in support of advancing their career aspirations and leadership journeys.

View the complete list of winners here: https://excellenceawards.brandonhall.com/winners/

Coca-Cola Becomes Official Soft Drink of N.C. A&T

Natalie Arrowood2023-08-24T08:31:21-04:00August 24, 2023|Company News|

Starting this academic year, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University students, faculty and fans will be sharing a Coke on campus and at athletic events.

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and Coca-Cola Consolidated today announced a partnership naming Coca-Cola as the official soft drink of the university.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Coca-Cola Consolidated and their family of brands and flavors,” said Angela Peterson, associate vice chancellor for Campus Enterprises. “The 2023 academic year is right around the corner, and we are excited to bring this partnership to life on campus.”

Throughout A&T’s campus and the Greensboro, North Carolina, area, consumers will see and feel Coca-Cola and the Aggies coming together to offer new experiences and programs all year round.

Beginning this month, students and faculty will be able to enjoy a variety of Coca-Cola products on campus. Fans also will also see signage at the first home football game Sept. 9 against North Carolina Central University.

“As a company founded in Greensboro, we’re honored to partner with the city’s most iconic university,” said Heather Hucks, vice president of consumer connections at Coca-Cola Consolidated. “We appreciate the passion and enthusiasm of Aggie Nation and are excited to join the family to create even more iconic memories with Aggie students, fans and alumni.”

Coca-Cola Consolidated and The Coca-Cola Company have long-standing commitments to partner with historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to encourage and support educational opportunities for all students.

Coca-Cola Consolidated hosts an annual event providing the opportunity for students to engage in a weeklong program providing hands-on experience to learn about their business.

In the last five years, The Coca-Cola Company and The Coca-Cola Foundation together have contributed more than $17 million to HBCUs and national scholarship funds supporting HBCU students.

“We are unwavering in our dedication to uplift the next generation of students by providing opportunities, resources and scholarships to impact Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” said Michael Braxton, senior manager of multicultural marketing at The Coca-Cola Company. “Adding the nation’s largest HBCU to the Coke family is a tremendous opportunity to further this aspiration.”

Coca-Cola Consolidated Investing Nearly $100M in New State-of-the-Art Warehouse in Columbus

Natalie Arrowood2023-07-25T08:14:40-04:00July 25, 2023|Company News|

Coca-Cola Consolidated plans to invest nearly $100 million in a new 400,000-square-foot distribution and warehouse facility in Columbus that will allow us to better serve our customers in central Ohio and spark continued growth in the region.

Rendering of anticipated new Columbus, Ohio distribution and warehouse facility.

We are excited to continue our journey of growth in the Buckeye state,” said Sam Meiner, Coca-Cola Consolidated’s Market Unit Vice President and General Manager in Ohio. “This investment in our distribution capabilities is a long-term commitment to improving how we serve the world’s best brands and flavors to our communities.”

More than 325 teammates in warehouse, distribution, sales, and equipment services roles will continue serving our customers and consumers at our current Columbus location until they transfer to the new location. The move will also create 12 new full-time jobs. The proposed new facility will be comprised of three buildings including a new equipment services facility and a new fleet shop for our transportation subsidiary Red Classic Transit.

“We are grateful for Coca-Cola Consolidated’s continued investment and job creation in Columbus,” said Michael Stevens, Director of Development for the City of Columbus. “Coca-Cola Consolidated is a well-respected community and business partner. This projected investment in a state-of-the-art facility shows their commitment to providing career opportunities and quality service in the Columbus region.”

The anticipated new facility will also include an experiential learning center providing Coke Consolidated teammates with the opportunity to develop and grow their skills.

“The investment from Coca-Cola Consolidated in their facility and workforce is an investment in the people of Ohio and in the future of the company,” said Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted. “In today’s competitive environment, investing in people and facility modernization is a key component of success.”

Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Coca-Cola Consolidated has served as the region’s local Coca-Cola bottler since 2017. Coca-Cola Consolidated currently has more than 1,750 teammates working in 17 facilities across the state serving more than 30,000 customers.

Coca-Cola Consolidated is dedicated to strengthening the communities in which we live and work. Coca-Cola Consolidated has been a supporter of local non-profits such as Keep Columbus Beautiful, Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, Ronald McDonald House, and Killian Tarver Dancing Through The Pain and many others.

We’re actively recruiting for a variety of roles where individuals will be inspired, rewarded, supported, connected, developed and empowered with full benefits, a great workplace culture and growth opportunities.

The planned new facility will be part of the Rickenbacker Industrial Center located on Rohr Road, a 230-acre master planned industrial development by Trident Capital Group and O’Connor Capital Partners. We anticipate a spring 2025 opening, subject to receipt of governmental approvals and permits. A rendering of the facility can be downloaded here.

Coca-Cola Consolidated Expanding Equipment Repair Business in Monroe, NC

Natalie Arrowood2023-06-22T10:59:42-04:00June 22, 2023|Company News|

Coca-Cola Consolidated is expanding its regional remanufacturing center at the Monroe Corporate Center, located in the city’s “Class A” precision manufacturing industrial park.

The Company is adding 42,000 square feet of space to meet growing demand and expects to complete the work in fall 2024. An investment of up to $15 million is currently anticipated in connection with the project.

“This investment reflects our dedication to innovation, growth and our teammates,” said Mark Simmons, Senior Vice President of Equipment Services at Coca-Cola Consolidated. “We’re expanding our remanufacturing capacity and fostering an environment of learning and development, ensuring a bright future for both our teammates and the Monroe community.”

The added capacity will include new paint booth and high-pressure cleaning equipment, as well as classrooms and training workstations to prepare Coke Consolidated’s next generation of diverse servant leaders.

“Monroe is very proud that Coca-Cola Consolidated chose to expand their facility here in Monroe,” said Mayor Marion Holloway. “The company has provided jobs for our residents since 1996, and I am pleased they will continue to offer excellent career opportunities.”

Coca-Cola Consolidated is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States. In addition to servicing its own beverage cooling and dispensing equipment, such as coolers, fountain/vending beverage dispensers and ice machines, Coca-Cola Consolidated’s subsidiary, Equipment Reutilization Services (ERS) will be performing similar work at the facility for other Coca-Cola Bottlers and commercial business partners.

County Commission Chairman Stony Rushing shared, “Union County has been focused on growing our commercial tax base by providing one of the best business environments in the Carolinas. Coca-Cola Consolidated’s decision to grow here demonstrates the confidence businesses have in our community. We are very proud to partner with them as they continue to invest in Union County.”

At the June 19th, 2023, Board of County Commissioners meeting, Union County awarded a “STEP 3” economic development incentive grant not to exceed $330,000 in total. The City of Monroe also awarded a Level III economic development incentive grant not to exceed $300,000 over the same period at their meeting on June 13th, 2023.

Chris Platé, Executive Director of Monroe-Union County Economic Development Commission, expressed excitement about Coca-Cola Consolidated’s expansion in the community. “Monroe and Union County work diligently to remain a preferred location for precision manufacturing operations. Our community is honored that Coca-Cola Consolidated will expand their footprint in our community once again.”

Coca-Cola Consolidated is dedicated to strengthening the communities where its teammates live and work. Teammates at the Monroe facility have been long-time supporters of Hometown Heroes, Ground 40, House of Pearls, Union County Community Shelter, First Responders of Union County, and many other local non-profits.

Coca-Cola Consolidated To Honor Military Members During Memorial Day Weekend at Coca-Cola 600

Natalie Arrowood2023-05-24T13:44:31-04:00May 23, 2023|Community Engagement, Company News|

This weekend, Coca-Cola Consolidated will join NASCAR and Charlotte Motor Speedway to honor the Memorial Day holiday.  The Coca-Cola 600 is considered one of NASCAR’s “Crown Jewel” races, not only because it’s the longest race on NASCAR’s year-long schedule, but it’s also an event that revolves around honoring and remembering U.S. Military service men and women who gave their lives in active duty defending our country.

Coca-Cola Consolidated and our partners at The Coca-Cola Company have a longstanding history of honoring the service and sacrifice of our military members and their families.

On May 1, leaders from Coca-Cola Consolidated, The Coca-Cola Company, NASCAR and defending Coca-Cola 600 winner Denny Hamlin traveled to Washington, D.C. to honor the upcoming holiday by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 400,000 servicemen and women and their families from every major United States conflict since the American Revolution.

As part of NASCAR Salutes Together with Coca-Cola, NASCAR and Coca-Cola will host Gold Star Families during Memorial Day weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where a show car with fan messages will be on display. Another highlight for the weekend will include the traditional display of fallen service members featured on the windshields of 40 NASCAR Cup Series cars.

Volunteers from Coca-Cola Consolidated, NASCAR, Charlotte Motor Speedway and the Independence Fund renovated the home of Charlotte-area Army Veteran Kemp Harvey the week before the Coca-Cola 600. During a small reveal, Harvey received tickets to this weekend’s Coca-Cola 600, where he’ll be cheering on his favorite Coca-Cola family driver Joey Logano. He also received gift cards to Harris Teeter.

The Coca-Cola 600 will air on FOX this Sunday, May 28  starting at 6 p.m., with exclusive pre-race coverage and NASCAR Race Day starting at 5 p.m.

South Atlantic Canners, Inc. expanding Lee County, South Carolina operations

Natalie Arrowood2023-05-15T16:04:22-04:00May 15, 2023|Company News|

South Atlantic Canners, Inc. (South Atlantic Canners), a Coca-Cola production cooperative that includes several Coca-Cola distributors, plans to expand its Lee County operations. The $28.7 million investment will create 15 new jobs over the next five years.

“South Atlantic Canners’ expansion is yet another indication that companies are not only finding success in South Carolina but also recognize it as a place where they can continue to thrive for years to come. This expansion is a clear indication of their confidence in our state, and we look forward to continuing our partnership for years to come.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

Located in Bishopville, South Atlantic Canners plans to renovate its existing facility and add new, state-of-the-art equipment. South Atlantic Canners is managed by Coca-Cola Consolidated.

“This investment reinforces the commitment of Coca-Cola distributors to manufacture our products in Lee County and South Carolina. This investment will positively impact our ability to serve our team, customers and communities, and hopefully encourages future economic development in the region.” -South Atlantic Canners, Inc. Senior Plant Director Troy Santoscoy

The expansion is expected to be complete by Dec. 31, 2027. Initial hiring for new positions is underway; interested applicants should visit www.work4coke.com for more information.

Rain Barrel Workshop Aims to Increase Rainwater Collection in Columbus

Natalie Arrowood2023-04-10T11:03:12-04:00April 10, 2023|Sustainability|

More than 100 Columbus, Ohio residents participated in a first of its kind workshop to convert Coca-Cola syrup barrels to residential rain barrels.

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther joined Coca-Cola Consolidated, the City of Columbus, Keep Columbus Beautiful, The Coca-Cola Company and the Ohio Beverage Association at the rain barrel workshop on March 18.

“You all are helping us further our goals of making Columbus safer, healthier and greener and better positioned for the next generation,” said Mayor Anthony Ginther.

This pilot project highlights the sustainability practices of reusing rainwater in the Columbus community.

“As Columbus’s local Coca-Cola bottler, we embrace our responsibility to improve the communities where we live and work,” said Alexandria Gormley, Government Affairs Director, Coca-Cola Consolidated.

Coca-Cola Consolidated and Kroger to Close the Loop at the 2023 Kentucky Derby

Natalie Arrowood2023-04-10T10:40:38-04:00April 8, 2023|Sustainability|

For the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby, Coca-Cola Consolidated, Kroger and Churchill Downs are teaming up to recycle bottles and cans from this year’s race.

Fans will have opportunities to recycle at Churchill Downs during this year’s races and Kroger’s Zero Hunger Zero Waste team will be on site with gift cards for those who are caught green handed recycling bottles and cans.

This partnership will help collect used bottles and cans to be remade into new packaging.

Cleaning up Nashville’s Waterways

Natalie Arrowood2023-04-10T08:57:52-04:00March 31, 2023|Sustainability|

Coca-Cola Consolidated partnered with Mill Creek Watershed Association and Osprey Initiative to remove litter in and around Nashville’s Antioch Park.

More than 30 volunteers, including Coke Consolidated teammates, joined the effort. Bottles collected from the cleanup will be recycled and remade into new bottles.

Water is the main ingredient in the beverages we bottle and we pledge to protect every drop. Coca-Cola Consolidated is protecting waterways, like those in Antioch Park, in communities served across its territory.

Coca-Cola Consolidated Renews Partnership with RBC Heritage

Natalie Arrowood2023-03-23T14:33:07-04:00March 28, 2023|Company News|

Coca-Cola Consolidated has signed a five-year extension as the official non-alcoholic beverage provider of the RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing.

Coca-Cola products have been served at the RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing since the PGA TOUR event debuted in 1969 at Harbour Town Golf Links, 55 years ago.

“We are proud to be associated with such an iconic brand who has a history of helping others. Coca-Cola Consolidated’s continued support for almost a half century is unprecedented and has quenched the thirst of our loyal spectators and sponsors,” said Steve Wilmot, President of the Heritage Classic Foundation.

“We are excited to continue our partnership with the Heritage Classic Foundation,” said Heather Hucks, VP of Consumer Connections. “Coca-Cola and RBC Heritage both have rich roots in the Lowcountry. For 55 years, we have been refreshing fans as the official non-alcoholic beverage provider at the only annual PGA TOUR event in South Carolina. We look forward to partnering with the tournament to positively impact the community through our sustainability efforts.”

Coca-Cola Consolidated developed a local program designed to help collect and recycle packaging from the tournament. Consolidated partnered with local organizations, like i2Recycle and Bluffton High School, to renew this recycled material into new packaging.

“The Heritage Classic Foundation’s partnership with Coca-Cola Consolidated continues to grow and positively affect the community. The tournament recycling programs we have implemented together have kept over 100,000 bottles and cans out of landfills,” said Wilmot.

The 55th annual RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing will take place April 10-16, 2023 over the famed Harbour Town Golf Links. Tournament tickets are on sale at www.rbcheritage.com.

Coca-Cola Consolidated has more than 1,300 teammates working at 7 facilities in the state, including a production center in Bishopville, SC, a cooperative managed by Coca-Cola Consolidated.

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About Natalie Arrowood