Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 01, 2012	Jul. 03, 2011	Jul. 01, 2012	Jul. 03, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 11,900	$ 11,984	$ 16,995	$ 18,453
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	1	(1)	0	(5)
Defined benefit plans amortization included in pension costs:
Actuarial loss	421	314	841	628
Prior service costs	3	3	6	5
Postretirement benefits amortization included in benefits costs:
Actuarial loss	371	321	743	642
Prior service costs	(229)	(260)	(459)	(520)
Transition asset	0	(3)	0	(6)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	567	374	1,131	744
Comprehensive income	12,467	12,358	18,126	19,197
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	1,153	883	1,683	1,439
Comprehensive income attributable to Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated	$ 11,314	$ 11,475	$ 16,443	$ 17,758