The Bhaluka plant, which began operations in December, will initially run two lines producing Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite and Kinley water. The facility will employ more than 150 people and create approximately 1,000 additional indirect jobs through industries throughout Coke’s value chain, from transportation and manufacturing to packaging supply.
A delegation including Bangladesh Finance Minister A.M.A. Muhith and U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh Marcia Bernicat celebrate the grand opening of Coca-Cola’s newest plant in Bangladesh.
“Bangladesh is fast emerging as one of the world's most important growth markets, and this plant allows for us to meet the demands of this market while creating value,” said Irial Finan, president, Bottling Investments Group (BIG), The Coca-Cola Company. “It is our hope that people view our presence as a representation of our strong belief in this country and optimism in creating a stronger future for our communities and businesses in this country.”
Coca-Cola previously announced investments in Bangladesh of $74 million through 2020. Additional investments have supported infrastructure improvements, route-to-market enhancements and marketing programs.
The new $60 million plant in Bhaluka represents the company’s continued commitment to both the long-term growth of its business and the sustainable development of local communities in Bangladesh.
“The Coca-Cola Company doesn’t take investments of this size lightly,” said John Murphy, president, Pacific Group, The Coca-Cola Company. “We chose Bangladesh for this plant and investment for a multitude of reason but, more among the most important were the country’s positive attitude towards undertaking reforms for business growth and the availability of a highly-skilled workforce. We are excited to be a part of the positive change happening in the country.”
Before cutting the ceremonial ribbon and starting the plant’s production lines, Bangladesh Finance Minister A.M.A. Muhith said, “Today’s opening represents a positive trend for Bangladesh. Private sector investment in our country is picking up, and Coca-Cola’s decision to invest in Bangladesh demonstrates our position as an investment hub. More importantly, Coca-Cola’s investment expands beyond the walls of this plant by creating additional jobs in our communities, training local talent and investing in our communities.”
