Retail giant Walmart has announced the upcoming launch of a milk processing facility in Valdosta, Georgia, set to open in 2025. 

Breaking ground in late 2023, the facility aims to generate nearly 400 job opportunities within the local community. It will supply more than 750 Walmart stores and Sam’s Clubs in the Southeast.

The Arkansas-based retailer said the facility will strengthen its capacity to meet the demand for high-quality milk products while making its supply chain more resilient.

The amount of investment for the Valdosta project was not disclosed, however, it is reported to be in the region of $350m.

Local sourcing, resilient supply chain

Walmart intends to source its ingredients from local farmers and the investment is part of the company’s aim to take control of its dairy goods sourcing, supply chain and production in an attempt to reduce prices.

This initiative aligns with its broader mission to fortify its supply chain, building on previous investments into the fresh produce supply chain such as the 2018 opening of a milk processing facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

The retailer has also ventured into projects for meat packaging and vertical farming in the US. In June 2023, Walmart announced its investment in a beef packing facility in Olathe, Kansas, creating 600 jobs. It is set to be operational in 2025.

In 2022, the company invested in California-based vertical-farming business Plenty Unlimited as part of a $400m funding round.

Enhancing customer access and value

Upon its opening, the Valdosta facility will play a role in Walmart's commitment to providing customers with access to milk at everyday low prices.

The facility will process and bottle a range of milk options, including a gallon, a half gallons, whole, 2%, 1%, skimmed and 1% chocolate milk for Walmart’s Great Value and Sam’s Club’s member’s mark brands.

This move reinforces Walmart's dedication to meeting customer expectations through continuous innovation and community-focused initiatives.