Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola Faces Criticism Over Packaging Goals
Coca-Cola is accused of backtracking on its pledge to use 25% reusable packaging by 2030, sparking claims of greenwashing. In 2022, it committed to sell a quarter of its drinks in refillable or returnable glass or plastic bottles, or in refillable containers to be filled at fountains or Coca-Cola’s freestyle dispensers. Coca-Cola removed the pledge from its website, shifting focus to recycled content targets, which critics argue do little to address plastic waste. Campaigners argue that single-use packaging, even when recycled, drives environmental harm. They urge Coca-Cola to prioritize reusable options. Von Hernandez from Break Free from Plastic said: “If they can’t even keep their low-bar commitments, how can they claim to be serious about addressing the global plastic crisis?”
HCCB Boosts Telangana With Greenfield Factory
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages inaugurated a cutting-edge factory in Telangana’s Banda Thimmapur, showcasing advanced technology and eco-friendly practices. Spanning 49 acres, it represents a ₹2,091 crore investment, about US$250 million, and creates 410 jobs. It emphasizes sustainability with renewable energy, water reuse and efficient cooling systems. Combined with an earlier facility, HCCB’s investments in Telangana now total ₹3,798 crores, supporting over 1,000 jobs and 180,000 retailers.
Nestle
Labor Violations Challenge Nestlé’s Ethical Sourcing Claims
China Labor Watch exposed labor violations on farms supplying Starbucks and Nestlé in China, including excessive hours, lack of contracts and child labor. These issues, often occurring on informal "ghost farms," undermine the brands’ ethical sourcing standards. Both companies pledged to launch investigations int 26 farms as they face scrutiny over their supply chain practices amid China’s growing coffee market. Farmworkers are allegedly working from dawn to dusk every day, violating the companies’ 48-hour limit for working week.
Sanpellegrino Zero Targets Health-Conscious UK Consumers
Nestlé Waters launched Sanpellegrino Zero Added Sugar in the UK, addressing rising demand for low-sugar beverages. Offering premium citrus flavors with only natural fruit sugars, the range caters to consumers prioritizing taste and health. Available in three flavors - Limonata, Pesca and Clementina, and Aranciata Rossa – the launch in Tesco precedes a nationwide rollout in 2025.
Nongfu Spring
Nongfu Spring Founder Criticizes Price Wars
Nongfu Spring's founder Zhong Shanshan criticized China's aggressive price wars, blaming platforms like Pinduoduo for damaging brands. However, the company’s own pricing strategies have contributed to the market's downward pressure, including slashing prices for its bottled water lines. Despite efforts to reverse this trend by raising prices, Nongfu's core water revenue dropped by 18.3 percent in the first half of the year and the company faces challenges from competitors like China Resources Beverage. There is some suggestion that Nongfu’s criticism of pricing strategies in the market is an attempt to deflect attention from other challenges the company faces.
Other Companies
Saudi Arabia’s Milaf Cola Is A First For Soft Drinks
Milaf Cola, which claims to be the world's first soft drink made from dates, was launched at the Riyadh Date Festival by Thurath Al-Madina, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. It combines the health benefits of dates, rich in natural sugars, fiber and minerals, offering a healthier alternative to traditional sodas. Produced with locally sourced dates and eco-friendly practices, Milaf Cola adheres to international food safety standards. The drink received positive reviews for its natural sweetness and refreshing taste, and Thurath Al-Madina plans to expand its product line with more date-based beverages.
Um Rupa Water Launches As Sustainable Local Brand In India
In India, Meghalaya's Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma launched Um Rupa Premium Mineral Water, marking a milestone for local entrepreneurship in the West Khasi Hills District. The brand uses locally sourced spring water and environmentally friendly glass bottle packaging. Um Rupa is the district's first bottled water brand, promoting regional economic growth and sustainability. Sangma praised the product's innovative approach, particularly the glass packaging, and highlighted its potential for broader market expansion.
Muttiah Muralitharan To Launch Beverage Brand In India
Sri Lankan cricket legend Muttiah Muralitharan is entering the Indian beverage market with a new venture, "Muttiah Beverages and Confectioneries," aimed at challenging the dominance of Pepsi and Coca-Cola in the country. Initially a Rs 230 crore investment, this has now been expanded to an expected Rs 1,400 crore over multiple phases. Set to begin operations in January 2025 on 46 acres in Karnataka, the project will create jobs and boost local infrastructure. Muralitharan’s brand will focus on manufacturing soft drinks and confectionery.
More...
Copyright 2024 Business360, Inc.