Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC (Coke Florida) officially unveiled its new Ocala Sales and Distribution Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by company associates, local officials, and community partners. The new facility, spanning nearly 28,000 square feet, is located near Silver Springs Boulevard and NW 52nd Avenue. Representing a $10 million investment, it will serve as a permanent hub for Coke Florida’s local operations, supporting the company’s continued commitment to the Ocala community. The Ocala operations will manage the delivery of more than 2 million units of Coca-Cola products and partner brands annually across the region, including Marion, Sumter, Citrus, Hernando, and Lake counties.
“This new facility is a key part of Coke Florida’s ongoing investment in our operations and will enhance our distribution and service capabilities,” said Thomas Benford, President and Chief Operating Officer of Coke Florida. “We see great potential in the Ocala market. This expansion will help us meet customer demand, improve service, and ensure better product availability while strengthening our relationships in the greater Ocala area.”
Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano joined the ribbon-cutting ceremony and a public tour of the facility, which includes both warehousing and office spaces. “We are thrilled to be celebrating Coke Florida’s growth here in Ocala,” said Mayor Marciano. “As a locally owned, Florida-based business, Coke Florida’s investment brings exciting opportunities for development, jobs, and economic growth to our community.”
John Horner, Coke Florida’s Territory General Manager for Ocala, highlighted the positive impact the new facility has on both the business and its employees. “Our team of over 100 associates in Ocala — including CDL drivers, Sales Account Managers, Sales Merchandisers, and warehouse staff — is excited about the convenience of the new location, which allows us to continue providing world-class service to our customers more efficiently. The new space also enables us to build stronger partnerships with the community,” said Horner.
Coke Florida has been deeply committed to the Ocala region since its establishment in 2015. The company engages with the community through three key pillars: Sustainability, Education, and Economic Empowerment. As part of its continued community involvement, Coke Florida partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Marion County in 2023 to fund and build a new home for a deserving local family.
During the event, the company announced a new initiative to support local youth: a donation of laptops and educational resources to fully upgrade the technology lab at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Marion County. Additionally, Coke Florida’s Technology team will lead digital skills training courses to help students improve their digital fluency.
Coke Florida also made a $2,500 donation to the No Horsin’ Around sustainability program in Marion County, which promotes litter reduction and environmental stewardship through education and community engagement.
This new facility is another step in Coke Florida’s mission to support local communities while enhancing its operational capabilities and strengthening its presence across the region.
