Coca-Cola Beverages Africa boosts production with US$20.6M bottling line investment in South Africa

SOUTH AFRICA – Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) has unveiled a R365 million (US$20.6M) investment in a high-tech bottling line at its Midrand facility in South Africa.  

This new line, capable of producing 72,000 bottles per hour, is the first of its kind in the country and forms part of the company’s strategic focus on innovation and sustainable packaging. 

The advanced production line will manufacture a range of hydration products, including the Bonaqua Pump Still 750ml and Powerade 500ml bottles with a new sports cap design. It will also support the production of Bonaqua Still in 330ml and 500ml pack sizes and the newly launched Powerade Springboks Edition. 

“This investment strengthens our ability to meet growing consumer demand and create shared value throughout the local value chain,” said Moses Lubisi, Manufacturing and Technical Director at Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA), a subsidiary of CCBA. He added that the launch reflects Coca-Cola’s localised approach to production, distribution, and sourcing. 

CCBA’s CEO, Sunil Gupta, emphasized the strategic importance of the new line, stating that it represents a significant milestone in the company’s growth trajectory across the continent. “It enhances our ability to meet consumer needs while reinforcing our commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality beverages across Africa,” said Gupta. 

In addition to increasing capacity, the line includes energy-efficient and water-saving technology to support the company’s sustainability objectives. The investment also involved upskilling staff, contributing to workforce development and future-readiness within the company and the broader community. 

Concurrently, CCBSA has begun rolling out its 2-litre returnable PET bottle in select areas, including parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Soweto.  

The returnable bottle, made from durable PET plastic, features a distinctive green “RETURNABLE” label and is designed to be reused and refilled multiple times, offering an eco-friendly alternative to single-use packaging. 

Households in pilot areas have been receiving free refillable samples via branded ambassadors to raise awareness and encourage adoption. “This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to reduce packaging waste while making beverages more affordable for consumers,” said Bame Modimogale, CCBSA’s Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Director. 

Consumers who return their 2L Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, or Stoney bottle can purchase a refill at the recommended price of R15 (US$0.84), excluding a refundable R9 (US$0.51) deposit. Each return provides customers with a cost-saving benefit and contributes to waste reduction. 

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