SECHABA ANTICIPATES SURGE IN COKE SALES
Sechaba Holdings anticipates improved sales for its Coca-Cola sparkling soft drinks in 2023. The group experienced increase in the business portfolio, recording 86.7 percent growth of total volumes, a significant over 0.3 percent against the business plan targets of the year, out of which 1.3 percent were diet, light or Zero (DLZ) products.
The company stated that the sparkling drinks sales were driven by the core brands, and in particular, Brand Coke, with the three brands’ combining to a contribution of 83.2 percent of total SSD volume. Sechaba Managing Director, Faith Nteta stated that 2022 was a difficult year for the Coca-cola Beverages Botswana (CCBB) with final volume deliverables closing above the previous year, but well short of business plan targets. “Not only were the long-term effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and government implemented Sugar Tax still prevalent within the market, but 2022 also saw an irregular high inflation rate and high commodity price pressure throughout the year in Botswana.”
The flavours portfolio, and in particular, the Fanta brand, continued in its 2021 struggles with both Fanta, the driving flavour brand, and Spar Letta/Twist delivered below 2022 targets, closing -26.5 percent and -9.3 percent. “The CCBB Trade marketing team continued its excellent work in trade, supporting the sparkling category
throughout the year and maintaining visibility in trade through promotions and activations,” states the company.
Nteta stated that despite headwinds, they are confident that the group will grow from strength to strength for many years to come. “We are also well-poised to pursue growth opportunities and enter the new year trusting that we will excel, drive sustainable growth, and deliver enduring value to our stakeholders.”