Niagara Bottling, one of the nation’s most prominent beverage manufacturers, on Wednesday announced plans to open a production facility in Opelika.
According to the governor’s office, the company’s estimated investment in the facility sits at $112 million. An initial 50 jobs will be created at the bottling plant, which will be located in the Northeast Opelika Industrial Park along Interstate 85.
In praising the company’s announcement, Gov. Kay Ivey touted Alabama’s business-friendly economic environment.
“Niagara Bottling’s decision to locate its new production facility in Opelika is a testament to Alabama’s strong business climate and the many advantages we can offer companies looking to energize their growth plans,” Ivey stated in a release. “Niagara Bottling is making a significant investment to launch this operation, and we are happy that the company chose to do it in Sweet Home Alabama.”
Niagara Bottling executive vice president Brian Hess spoke to the attractive qualities Opelika presented to the company during the selection process.
“We value the highly competitive and attractive combination of location, infrastructure, logistics and workforce in Opelika,” said Hess. “Niagara has built a strong team and community relationships throughout the United States and looks forward to maintaining our leadership in the areas of manufacturing, innovation, supply chain and overall environmental stewardship.”
Alabama Department of Commerce secretary Greg Canfield advised that Niagara Bottling expanding its operations to Opelika “perfectly aligns” with the state’s industry recruitment goals.
“The top-level priorities of Alabama’s economic development team are creating meaningful job opportunities for citizens around the state and bringing in new investment to invigorate communities,” proclaimed Canfield. “We look forward to seeing Niagara Bottling grow and thrive in Opelika because that perfectly aligns with our strategic economic development objectives.”
Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller stated the city’s plans to work alongside the company and assist with its growth in the area.
“It is truly an honor when an industry chooses to invest in our community,” said Fuller. “We are glad to assist Niagara Bottling in their continued success.”
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
