China: Coca-Cola plans to invest $4 billion

Coca-Cola has announced plans to invest $4 billion in China over the next three years, according to a report in the Jakarta Post.

Together with its bottling partners – COFCO Coca-Cola Beverages, Swire Beverages and Coca-Cola Bottling Investments Group China – Coca Cola will invest in expanding production capacity, distribution networks and facilities, and marketing.

After the company reported 6% growth in sales during the second quarter of this year, chairman and chief executive officer Muhtar Kent commented that the company’s production facilities in northern China would be key.

Mr Kent said: “We are committed to investing here and growing long term […] Apart from infrastructure and system-capability building, the new investments will focus on enhancing consumer experiences through improved marketing and local promotions with our loyal retail partners”.

The company also announced the opening of a new plant in Changsha, Hunan province, which is to be build as part of the $4 billion investment.

Source: Jakarta Post