Columbus, Georgia is Where Coca-Cola Was Born. Food & Beverage Processing Companies Thrive Here.

Columbus is an ideal city for food and beverage processing thanks to its abundant water supply, proximity to agriculture, ready workforce, robust infrastructure, and unbeatable location advantages.

“We’re very fortunate to be located on the Chattahoochee River, where we draw water from Lake Oliver and have a near unlimited water supply,” said Steve Davis, President of Columbus Water Works (CWW). “The city is known for beverage manufacturing, which includes the production of soft drinks, fruit juices, energy drinks, and bottled water. Coca-Cola was founded here, so we have a history of beverage manufacturing that lasts nearly 150 years.”

Columbus has available food and beverage manufacturing sites, a skilled workforce accustomed to this industry, and low utility rates. In addition, Columbus is centrally located 107 miles from Atlanta, 140 miles from Birmingham, 167 miles from Tallahassee, and 220 miles from Chattanooga for easy transportation to major metropolitan areas.

Over 293 food and beverage manufacturing companies have opened in Georgia in the past decade, investing over $4.75 billion in the state. Coca-Cola was founded in Columbus. Since then, other companies have discovered the benefits of manufacturing in Columbus, including:

  • Hostess Snack Cakes
  • Chairman Foods
  • Ala Trade Foods
  • RC Cola
  • River City Beverages
  • Refresco
  • Cera Products
  • Califormulations

Explore sites and buildings that are ideal for the food and beverage industry.

The Workforce In Columbus Understands the Food & Beverage Industry

Since the early 1900’s Columbus, Georgia has been a hub for food and beverage manufacturing. “Columbus is rooted in manufacturing,” said Beaux Williamson, Hostess’ Director of Bakery Operations. “On top of the millions invested into the company, we have a growing demand for our product, which is where the investment opportunities come in.” Williamson is confident that Columbus has been the ideal location for Hostess to expand. “Here in Columbus, you know the workforce will rise to the challenge.”

One of the regional assets Hostess has leveraged is the Georgia Quick Start program. Other local training programs include the Certified Manufacturing Specialist program offered by Columbus Technical College.

Columbus’s proximity to Fort Moore provides another workforce advantage. Approximately 2,500 active duty soldiers exit the military from Fort Moore each year, and approximately 700 of them stay in Columbus.

Contact us to discover how our regional food and beverage workforce can support your company’s growth. 

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