New Delhi, October 31, 2023 : In a recent gubernatorial announcement, Governor Brian Kemp disclosed that Walmart, a multinational retailer, is set to establish a new food processing facility in Valdosta, Georgia. This dairy facility is anticipated to generate nearly 400 job opportunities and attract a $350 million investment in Lowndes County.
Governor Kemp expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We’re excited that Walmart will soon tap into Georgia’s No. 1 industry and open new opportunities for farmers in the Lowndes County area.” He congratulated the local and state-level contributors whose efforts facilitated this development, expressing anticipation for the project’s success in bolstering the thriving agriculture industry.
The Valdosta dairy facility aims to supply high-quality milk to Georgia and neighboring states, servicing over 750 Walmart stores and Sam’s Clubs in the region.
Bruce Heckman, Vice President of Manufacturing at Walmart, conveyed the company’s excitement, saying, “We’re thrilled to open this new dairy facility in Valdosta, Georgia, as we continue to make strides to increase surety of supply for our customers’ grocery essentials.” Walmart plans to collaborate with local dairy farmers and associates to ensure the facility processes high-quality milk at everyday low prices.
The new facility, situated on Inner Perimeter Road in Valdosta, is expected to commence operations in late 2025. Walmart will be recruiting for various positions, including production, engineering, quality, food safety, warehouse operations, maintenance, and drivers.
Georgia Department of Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper emphasized the positive impact, stating, “This new, state-of-the-art facility will not only bring jobs and opportunity to the Valdosta area, it will enable our dairy farmers to produce more goods from start to finish right here in Georgia.”
Valdosta Mayor Scott James Matheson expressed pride in Walmart choosing Valdosta, foreseeing significant economic benefits and job opportunities for the community and the broader South Georgia region.
Chairman Bill Slaughter of the Lowndes County Board of Commissioners echoed this sentiment, stating, “Lowndes County is thrilled that Walmart has announced they’re building a new state-of-the-art facility in our community.”
Senior Project Manager Elizabeth McLean, representing the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Global Commerce team, collaborated with various entities, including the Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority, City of Valdosta, Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Power, and Georgia Quick Start. according to the reports published in dairynews.today .
GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson highlighted the significance of Walmart’s investment in advancing Georgia’s agriculture industry, emphasizing its positive impact on the entire ecosystem. The state’s robust economy in agriculture and food processing, coupled with extensive cold storage space and efficient logistics infrastructure, positions Georgia as an attractive location for such ventures.
