Coca-Cola System Generates R51.2bn Economic Impact, Supports 87,000 Jobs In South Africa
The Coca-Cola Company and its bottling partners contributed R51.2 billion to South Africa’s economy in 2024, supporting more than 87,000 jobs across its value chain, according to a new independent study.
The research, conducted by Steward Redqueen, assessed the system’s direct, indirect and induced economic impact. It found that Coca-Cola’s operations, together with suppliers, distributors and retailers, generated significant value across sectors including retail, agriculture, manufacturing, transport and services.
The study also highlights the company’s local integration. In 2024, the Coca-Cola system sourced R25.6 billion worth of goods and services from South African suppliers, supporting industries such as sugar production, packaging, logistics and marketing.
Speaking at a media briefing hosted by Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau ahead of the 2026 South Africa Investment Conference, Africa operating unit president Luis Felipe Avellar said the findings underscore the company’s role in the economy. “This independent study highlights the scale of the Coca-Cola system’s contribution to South Africa’s economy, employment and communities”, Avellar said.
According to the report, the system’s value chain supports more than 87,000 jobs, with an estimated multiplier effect: for every direct job created, about 10 additional jobs are sustained across the broader economy. “Our business is interconnected with local communities—we hire, produce, distribute and, where possible, source locally”. Avellar added.
Charl Goncalves, managing director of Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, said the company remains focused on partnerships that create opportunities for employees, suppliers and communities. South Africa remains a key market for the company, according to Sunil Gupta, chief executive of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, who noted the firm’s presence in the country dates back to 1928.
The Coca-Cola system has continued to expand its footprint through investments such as a new bottling line at its Midrand facility, aimed at boosting local production and distribution capacity. Apart from economic activity, the company is also involved in social initiatives. South Africa is among beneficiaries of the Africa Water Stewardship Initiative, a nearly $25 million programme running through 2030 to address water challenges in communities across 20 African countries.
The study concludes that Coca-Cola’s operations have a broad ripple effect across the economy, from sugarcane farming to beverage retailing, driving income generation, job creation and industrial activity.
SOURCE: Coca-Cola
