SEATTLE — Starbucks is investing $120 million to nearly double the size of its Starbucks Augusta Soluble Plant in Augusta, Ga.
Set to begin this summer and be completed in fall 2019, the expansion project will add 140,000 square feet to the current 180,000-square-foot plant. The project is expected to create up to 100 new jobs in the year after construction is finished, the company said.
The Augusta facility was opened in July 2012 and produces Starbucks soluble products. The plant’s two roasters produce Starbucks VIA Instant as well as the coffee base for Frappuccino blended beverages and several of Starbucks’ bottled and canned beverages.
“The expansion will add six new whole bean roasters, allowing the plant to offer packaged coffee to Starbucks stores and retail locations in the Northeast and Southeast United States,” Starbucks said. “The expansion is prompted by Starbucks growth and consumer demand.”
Last month, Starbucks announced its plans to expand its Carson Valley Roasting Plant and Distribution Center in Minden, Nev. Between the two projects, Starbucks will be investing $170 million.
