Coca Cola plans Rs 3,000 crore investment in Gujarat's Sanand

The Coca Cola Company is set to make a substantial investment of Rs 3,000 crore for the establishment of a beverage bases and concentrates plant in Sanand, Gujarat. The American multinational will channel the foreign direct investment (FDI) through International Refreshments (India) Private Limited (IRIPL), a subsidiary of The Coca Cola Company, reported TOI on Friday.

The state government has already allotted a 1.6 lakh square meter plot of land (SM-52) in Sanand Industrial Estate-II for the plant. Government sources have confirmed that the approval process has been expedited, showcasing the company's commitment to its investment in Gujarat.

"Coca Cola has already made two large investments through its bottling partners in Gujarat. The government has fast tracked the process of approvals and has already made land allotment to the company," TOI quoted senior officials in the state administration as saying.

Previously, the company has invested significantly in Gujarat through its bottling partner, Hindustan Coca Cola Beverages Limited.

The new plant in Sanand is expected to be fully automated, incorporating robotic technology, Internet of Things (IoT), and machine-learning devices for real-time monitoring and control of manufacturing processes. Additionally, automated storage and retrieval systems will enhance efficiency.

According to the TOI report, during the construction phase, the company plans to employ around 1,000 individuals, comprising both skilled and unskilled workers. Once operational, the plant is anticipated to provide jobs for approximately 400 individuals in operational and engineering roles, with a focus on gender diversity.

The establishment of this new plant is poised to have a positive ripple effect on ancillary industries, including packaging suppliers, flavour producers, engineering services, capital goods, and the automation sector.

(With inputs from TOI)