Danone, a renowned food and beverage company, recently invested $65 million in expanding its manufacturing plant in Jacksonville, Florida. This strategic move aims to meet the increasing demand for popular brands like International Delight and STōK Cold Brew. The newly expanded facility, which has been in operation for 77 years, officially opened its doors on Tuesday. The expansion will not only enhance production capacity but also allow for the introduction of new product lines, catering to diverse consumer preferences in the ever-evolving beverage market.
In addition to the plant expansion, Danone is also focusing on enhancing its distribution network in the Jacksonville area by establishing a new regional distribution center. This initiative is designed to ensure that products are delivered at peak freshness across the Southeastern United States. The company expects these investments to create nearly 200 direct and indirect jobs in the Jacksonville community, contributing to local economic growth. This move will also facilitate faster delivery times and improved logistics, ensuring consumers have access to their favorite coffee and creamer products without delay.
Despite the challenges faced by many businesses in terms of product volume, Danone is strategically positioning itself for the future by expanding production capabilities. In 2023, the company announced the addition of a new production line to support the growing demand for International Delight and STōK, two popular brands that resonate well with consumers. The new line is expected to increase production efficiency by 25%, allowing Danone to keep pace with the rising popularity of cold brew coffee and flavored creamers.
The cold brew coffee segment, in particular, is experiencing significant growth, with projections indicating a surge from $500 million in 2022 to $3.11 billion by 2030. This growth trajectory has influenced Danone’s expansion into seasonal flavors and a cold-brew energy drink line, aimed at increasing consumer engagement with the brand. Seasonal flavors, such as pumpkin spice and peppermint mocha, are expected to attract a wider audience and boost sales during the holiday seasons.
The new production line in Jacksonville features state-of-the-art technology, including a bottle-molding process that enhances production capacity while promoting efficiency and sustainability. By implementing this technology, Danone expects to reduce bottle loss by 30% and minimize water usage for creating recyclable bottles. These advancements reflect Danone’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental footprint in the production of coffee and creamers.
Dan Magliocco, the president of Danone North America, emphasized the company’s commitment to serving consumers through innovation and growth. He highlighted the importance of accelerating investments to drive economic progress and meet evolving consumer needs. This focus on innovation is not only vital for Danone but is also indicative of broader trends within the food and beverage industry as companies adapt to new consumer behaviors and preferences.
In 2025, several food and beverage companies, including JBS USA and Kraft Heinz, have made strategic changes to their production networks to increase output. Concurrently, companies like PepsiCo, Conagra Brands, and J.M. Smucker have adjusted their capacity to align with shifting consumer demand trends. The coffee industry, in particular, is witnessing a transformation as consumers increasingly seek out ready-to-drink options, driving brands like Danone to innovate and expand their offerings.
Overall, Danone’s investment in expanding its manufacturing plant and distribution network reflects its proactive approach to meeting consumer demand and driving economic growth in the Jacksonville community. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering high-quality products to consumers across the Southeastern United States. As Danone continues to invest in its product lines, consumers can look forward to exciting new coffee and creamer products that cater to their evolving tastes and preferences.
Moreover, Danone plans to enhance consumer education regarding the various flavors and products available within its coffee and creamer lines. This initiative will include marketing campaigns that highlight the unique features of each product, encouraging consumers to try new flavors and discover their favorites. By fostering a deeper connection with consumers, Danone aims to build brand loyalty and increase market presence in the competitive beverage industry.
As part of Danone’s broader strategy, the company is also exploring partnerships with local coffee farms to ensure the sourcing of high-quality coffee beans. This commitment to quality not only supports local growers but also reinforces Danone’s dedication to premium products. Building relationships with these farms could mean that consumers are not only enjoying their favorite beverages but are also supporting sustainable agricultural practices.