New Central Bakery Production Facility

Background

Coffee Café Bakery needed a central bakery production facility to support a growing network of Dunkin franchise locations throughout the Atlanta region. To meet increasing demand and improve consistency across stores, the ownership group selected an existing 31,000 sq. f t. storage facility with the goal of converting it into a centralized, high‑volume bakery operation. 

Although the building previously served as a food warehousing space, significant upgrades were required to support the operational demands of a central bakery production facility. In addition, the project site presented notable constraints. The facility was landlocked between neighboring buildings and a decommissioned railroad, leaving limited space for construction staging and equipment installation. Its proximity to Hartsfield‑Jackson International Airport also introduced regulatory aerial requirements that had to be addressed early in the planning process. 

Approach

Our team delivered integrated planning, design, permitting, construction, and process installation services to support the development of the central bakery production facility. We began by evaluating the existing structure and identifying infrastructure upgrades necessary to accommodate automated bakery production. 

Key improvements included installing a new plumbing system, removing outdated coolers and freezers, and upgrading rooftop HVAC equipment to support continuous operations within the central bakery production facility. To enhance reliability and minimize downtime, we also coordinated the installation of an additional power transformer and a generator with an automatic transfer switch. 

Given the tight site conditions, we carefully sequenced construction activities and process installation to maintain efficiency and avoid disruptions. Limited staging space required proactive coordination among contractors, trades, and equipment suppliers. Due to the facility’s proximity to the airport, our team also secured the required FAA approvals to safely lift and install rooftop HVAC units critical to the operation of the central bakery production facility.

Results

The completed central bakery production facility is a modern, high‑volume operation designed to deliver consistent, scalable production. The facility features two automated donut fry lines, and a specialty production area dedicated to cooling, icing, and filling a variety of products. 

Upgraded building systems and thoughtfully planned utilities provide the reliability and capacity required for long‑term growth. By transforming an existing structure into a semi-automated central bakery production facility, we helped Coffee Café Bakery support its expanding franchise network while overcoming complex site, infrastructure, and logistical challenges.