Walmart, America’s largest retail store, has announced its plans to build its third milk processing plant – this time in Robinson, Texas, which is just south of Waco. The $350 million facility is slated to open in 2026, with Walmart saying the new facility will source its milk primarily from Texas dairy farmers.
This news comes off the heels of the company’s announcement in October last year to build a second processing plant in Valdosta, Ga. The Georgia facility is expected to open in 2025.
In the past, Walmart has purchased its great-value branded milk from other dairy cooperatives. However, over the last decade, the retail giant has built a series of milk processing plants to control the production of one of the most price-sensitive grocery commodities. Walmart opened its first fluid milk processing facility in 2018 in Fort Wayne, Ind.
Bruce Heckman, vice president of Manufacturing at Walmart, shared his thoughts.
“We’re excited to be able to provide Texas and its surrounding states with high-quality milk sourced primarily from Texas dairy farmers,” Heckman says. “This new facility continues our commitment to building a more resilient and transparent supply chain and ensuring our customers’ needs are met for this everyday staple.”
Leaders across Texas also voiced their opinions on the retailer’s announcement.
- Greg Abbott – Texas Governor: “Walmart’s new processing facility in Robinson is exciting news for Texas, creating millions in investment for the local economy and hundreds of new, good-paying jobs for hardworking Texans in Central Texas. World-renowned companies like Walmart continue to choose Texas because of our unmatched business climate, lower business operating costs, and highly skilled, diverse and growing workforce. This major investment is a testament to the promise of economic success in Texas, and I thank Walmart for choosing McLennan County as the location for its important new facility.”
- Bert Echterling – Mayor of Robinson: “As the proud mayor of Robinson, I am thrilled to announce a groundbreaking addition to our beloved city’s industrial sector. Today marks a momentous occasion as we welcome Walmart, a pioneering industry leader, to our community. This monumental investment is the first of its kind in both size and value, signaling a transformative era for Robinson. The decision of Walmart to establish its roots here is a testament to the strength of our local economy, the dedication of our workforce and the strategic advantages that our city offers. This landmark development not only promises job creation and economic growth but also underscores Robinson’s position as a hub for innovation and progress.”
- Scott M. Felton – Judge of McLennan County: “We are proud to welcome a company, which tops the Fortune 500, to McLennan County.Great appreciation goes to the Robinson City Council, its city manager, Craig Lemin, and McLennan County Commissioner Jim Smith for working hand-in-hand with Walmart to ensure the necessary needs were met. This project is another example of how cities throughout McLennan County can participate in economic development. McLennan County is excited that our region has been named one of the top regions for food and beverage manufacturing businesses and this project reinforces our strength in this area.”
In a statement made by the retailer, the facility will process and bottle a variety of milk options, including Gallon, Half Gallon, Whole, 2%, 1%, Skim, and 1% Chocolate Milk for Walmart’s Great Value and Sam’s Club’s Member’s Mark brands. The products from the facility will serve more than 750 Walmart stores and Sam’s Clubs throughout the South including Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and parts of Arkansas and Mississippi.
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