Buffalo Rock kicked off celebration of its 125th anniversary this week, showing off its new headquarters and announcing plans for expanded manufacturing coming later this year.
“Founded in 1901, Buffalo Rock is the nation’s largest single family-owned Pepsi and Dr Pepper bottler, now representing 80 leading trademarks and over 1,300 SKUs across its territories,” the company said in announcing the anniversary.
The new 127,000-square-foot headquarters is located off Lakeshore Parkway in Birmingham. In addition to work and meeting space, the building includes walking trails, a fitness center and a medical office to serve the company’s 2,100 employees.
“In the early days, we weren’t the dominant force in the marketplace, but we were always grounded in relationships, and that hasn’t changed,” said James C. Lee III, board chairman and owner, Buffalo Rock Company. “This company was built on the shoulders of our Employee-Partners. We’ve intentionally created a culture that takes care of them because they are our greatest asset.”
Matthew Dent, president and CEO of the company, said, “For 125 years, Buffalo Rock has grown, adapted and evolved alongside the communities we serve. This milestone isn’t just about how long we’ve been in business; it’s about the people and partnerships that have shaped who we are. The depth at every level of our organization is stronger than it’s ever been, which means the future of this company is in great hands. We will be a highly relevant, highly competitive force in the future just as we have been for the last 125 years.”
Gov. Kay Ivey added her praise: “Buffalo Rock is part of the fabric of Alabama. For 125 years, this company has strengthened our communities, supported our local economies and created opportunity for thousands of families across the state. Their continued investment shows how deeply committed they are to Alabama’s future.”
In the last five years, Buffalo Rock has invested $300 million, opening new facilities in Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, the Shoals and Columbus, Georgia, and completed renovations and expansions at other facilities across the region.
The company also has launched a “125 Days of Summer” program — an array of events to celebrate its anniversary.
