Nigerian Bottling Company Expands with New Production Lines

Nigerian Bottling Company Ltd, a member of the Coca-Cola HBC Group, has introduced three new production lines as part of a $1bn investment programme in Nigeria. This significant development includes two lines at the Asejire plant in Oyo State and one at the Challawa plant in Kano State.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by Senator John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment. The company states that the new lines are equipped with advanced bottling technology, representing the first phase of a plan to enhance production capacity across Nigeria by 2026.

Goran Sladic, Managing Director of NBC, highlighted the company's long-term commitment to Nigeria, noting that NBC has been part of the nation's growth for 75 years, having invested considerably in local infrastructure and communities.

The expansion builds on over $1.5bn previously invested in NBC's Nigerian operations over the last decade. This move is aligned with the Coca-Cola System's broader investment strategy for Nigeria, which envisions a $1bn outlay over five years under conducive business conditions.

According to a socio-economic impact study by consulting firm Steward Redqueen, the Coca-Cola System contributed $1bn in value-added economic activity, supporting over 160,000 livelihoods in its value chain. The study also highlighted that for every direct job, 53 additional jobs were supported in Nigeria.

Senator Enoh praised the expansion as a testament to continued investment in Nigeria's industrial sector, emphasizing the positive impact on local supply chains and job creation.

To commemorate its 75th anniversary, NBC unveiled a limited-edition product label, presented to the minister during the event.