Coca-Cola unveils new P300m plant

Coca-Cola Beverages Botswana (CCBB) this week launched a revamped and advanced Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) production line, capable of producing 13,500 bottles per hour and also making the company fully compliant in ensuring that clean water is returned to the environment. PET is a clear, strong, lightweight material that beverage companies use for making 100%-recyclable plastic bottles.

Jacques Vermeulen, CEO Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, the parent company of CCBB, said the new plant is the result of a hefty investment of $22 million (P297m) and demonstrates the group’s confidence in Botswana.

“Our investment in the new production line is a clear demonstration of our continued belief in the future of Botswana and a sign of our confidence in Botswana as an investment destination,” he said. He further noted that Coca-Cola Beverages Africa is the eighth largest Coca-Cola bottling partner by revenue, accounting for 40% of all Coca-Cola volumes sold in Africa. “With the opening of the new PET line, we have increased our production capacity to enable the continued growth of our business and contribution we make to the Botswana economy and employment,” said Vermeulen. Debrah Mallowah, the group’s vice president for East and Central Africa, said Coca-Cola is committed to improving water availability and access to improved water sanitation to ensure clean drinking water for diverse communities. “Our 2030 water security strategy aims to improve water availability, quality and ecosystems. The water treatment facility in Botswana is an excellent example of our efforts,” added Mallowah.

Officiating at the launch of the new PET plant, Trade and Industry minister, Mmusi Kgafela applauded Coca-Cola Beverages Botswana for their commitment to responsible water usage and environmental sustainability. He further said given water constraints in the country, it is commendable to see a company save the nation’s scarce resource. “Despite your company being one of the world’s leading beverages companies, you have taken the responsibility to use water efficiently,” said Kgafela. Kgafela said the company’s investment aligns with the government’s waste management objectives of recycling, reusing and reducing waste. This, he said, will help unlock value chains that remain grossly untapped, a lucrative opportunity for economic diversification. “I am pleased to note that your company is committed to solving the plastic waste challenge currently on the verge of polluting our environment and killing its biodiversity,” Kgafela said.