Louisiana Attracts Major Walmart Reinvestment in Acadiana Distribution Center

• Project reflects Louisiana’s long-term commitment to infrastructure, workforce and competitive incentives.

• Modernization will double company’s shipping capacity, strengthening Louisiana’s role as a Gulf South logistics hub.

• Project expected to begin in 2026.

OPELOUSAS, La. – Louisiana’s business-friendly environment and strategic focus on logistics and infrastructure continues to deliver results as Walmart plans to invest more than $330 million to modernize its regional distribution center in Opelousas.

The company is expected to retain its workforce and transition roles toward higher-skilled positions in automation, robotics and advanced technology. Walmart has more than 37,400 associates in Louisiana, including more than 1,900 working in its distribution centers.

“Walmart’s modernization of its Opelousas distribution center is a powerful example of Louisiana’s strategy moving from plans to progress,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “Logistics is a newly designated key industry in our statewide strategic plan, and this investment strengthens one of the state’s most important distribution hubs while protecting and advancing Louisiana’s workforce. By integrating advanced technology, supporting long-term job stability, and creating opportunities for employees to grow alongside innovation, Walmart is demonstrating the kind of responsible growth that defines Louisiana’s momentum today.”

The phased, multi-year project builds on nearly 25 years of operations in St. Landry Parish and is part of Walmart’s nationwide initiative to upgrade all 42 of its regional distribution centers. Louisiana’s central Gulf South location, strong workforce and competitive incentive programs positioned the state as a natural choice for the significant reinvestment.

Walmart emphasized the importance of Louisiana’s partnership and workforce in the company’s supply chain modernization.

“Louisiana and Opelousas have been great partners for nearly 25 years,” Senior Vice President of Walmart Supply Chain Mike Gray saidTec. “By adding robotics and automation, we’re transforming how we serve our stores and customers. This investment allows us to grow alongside the community while creating new opportunities for career growth for our associates.”

“Walmart’s more than $330 million reinvestment in its Opelousas Distribution Center is a tremendous win for St. Landry Parish,” St. Landry Parish President Jessie Bellard said. “This modernization project not only secures existing jobs but also strengthens the foundation of our local economy for decades to come. Walmart’s continued commitment to our community supports local families, sustains critical parish services, and reaffirms that St. Landry Parish is a place where major employers can thrive and grow.”

Once complete, the Opelousas facility will be able to ship nearly twice the number of cases as a traditional distribution center, strengthening supply chain efficiency for Walmart stores throughout the region.

“Walmart’s decision to reinvest in St. Landry Parish reflects both their confidence in this community and their long-term commitment to Louisiana,” St. Landry Economic Development CEO Bill Rodier said. “As an anchor employer for St. Landry Parish, the Acadiana Region and central Louisiana, we are grateful that Walmart continues to strengthen the economic foundation that supports jobs, opportunity and growth across our region and parish.”

To support the project, the state of Louisiana provided a competitive incentives package, including a $10 million performance-based grant tied to equipment investments. The project also reflects close collaboration among state, regional and local economic development partners.

“Walmart’s investment of more than $330 million underscores the confidence global leaders have in Acadiana’s potential,” One Acadiana President & CEO Troy Wayman said. “The modernization of the Opelousas Distribution Center builds upon the innovation happening throughout our region, while positioning us for continued growth and competitiveness. We extend our congratulations to our economic development partners in St. Landry Parish on this exciting investment.”

Louisiana businesses interested in participating in major development projects are encouraged to register at SourceLouisiana.com to connect with contracting and vendor opportunities statewide.

About LED
Louisiana Economic Development is responsible for driving capital investment, job creation and economic opportunity for the people of Louisiana and employers of all sizes. Explore how LED is positioning Louisiana to win at OpportunityLouisiana.com. 

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Emma Wagner, LED Communications Director
Emma.Wagner@la.gov
912.467.2117

Jacey Wesley, LED Strategic Communications Manager
Jacey.Wesley@la.gov
225.342.5536