Coca-Cola, the global beverage giant, has sold 40 per cent stake of its Indian bottling operation, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Pvt Ltd (HCCBL), to Jubilant Bhartia Group. Whilst the financial details remain undisclosed officially, media sources suggest the transaction value approximates Rs 10,000 crore.
“The Coca-Cola Company today announced that it has reached an agreement with Jubilant Bhartia Group, a multi-billion conglomerate with global presence in diverse sectors, to acquire 40 per cent stake in Hindustan Coca-Cola Holdings Pvt Ltd, the parent company of the largest Coca-Cola bottler in India, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Pvt Ltd,” according to a joint announcement quoted by PTI.
The statement indicated that these modifications and investments mark a crucial development for Coca-Cola in its ongoing mission to refresh the world and create impact.
Regarding the transaction, Coca-Cola India President Sanket Ray stated: “We welcome Jubilant Bhartia Group to the Coca-Cola System in India. With its diverse experience in various sectors, Jubilant brings decades of rich experience that will help accelerate the Coca-Cola system, enabling us to win in the market and provide greater value to local communities and consumers.”
India ranks as Coca-Cola’s fifth-largest market worldwide. The company, headquartered in Atlanta, is reducing its bottling operations globally as part of its asset-light approach.
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages CEO Juan Pablo Rodriguez commented: “This strategic investment represents an important milestone in our journey. Jubilant Bhartia Group’s expertise, complements our strengths, ensuring that we continue delivering exceptional value to our stakeholders while driving innovation and sustainable progress.”
