Coca-Cola intends to capitalize on its new $26.7 million second plastic bottling line in Namanve to bolster its market share in Uganda's competitive soft drink industry, management has said.
The plant started operating in December last year, and produces close to 36,000 bottles an hour. Overall, this has increased Coca-Cola's output to about 60,000 bottles an hour. Kelvin Balogun, the President of Coca-Cola Company for Central, East and West Africa, says the new facility will be able to meet market demands within Uganda.
"As the opportunities for business in Uganda grow, this facility will enable us meet current and future demand for our products, and afford us the flexibility we need to introduce new products into the market," he said at the official launch of the plant recently.
Coca-Cola's Ugandan franchise managed to make profits of $10.6 million in 2012, according to figures from the management, a 50 per cent jump compared to 2011. Coca-Cola has also introduced new soft drinks on the market like Minute Maid. The beverage industry in the recent past has become competitive with new brands and investments tilting the balance of power.
Coca-Cola has also increased its portfolio of drinks, venturing into the juices market. The company has partnered with farmers in the districts of Kasese, Mbale, Budaka and Bukedea to provide fruits.
"We view this project as a model of inclusive business that should not only be emulated but supported as the best way to launch value-adding industries," Balogun said.
