Thai Coke Bottler Opens First Plant In Laos

BANGKOK -- Lao Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Ltd., a joint venture between Thailand Coke bottler ThaiNamthip Ltd. and Lao-based PT Sole Co. Ltd., recently inaugurated the first Coca-Cola bottling plant in the Lao People's Democratic Republic.

The plant, located in Saithani District of Vientiane province, will produce sparkling beverages for the Lao market. Initial production will include Coca-Cola, Fanta and Sprite, with the possibility of adding still beverage production lines at a later date.

With more than $30 million already invested in the Lao People's Democratic Republic, the Coca-Cola system has, in addition to the plant, established three distribution centers. It serves more than 4,300 retailers every week.

Pornwut Sarasin, chairman of Lao Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Ltd., said the Lao plant will complement Coca-Cola's supply chain in northeastern Thailand.

"With the establishment of this plant, our business now proudly manufactures and distributes beverages locally in each of the 10 ASEAN member countries, providing tangible economic benefit to the communities we serve," said Coca-Cola chairman and chief executive Muhtar Kent.

The Coke chief predicted that Southeast Asia will continue to be one of the most vibrant regions in the world for growth, having achieved sustained economic growth of around 5% annually. The beverage giant will continue to invest throughout the region, alongside its local bottling partners.

NEW HORIZONS:Commemorating inauguration of first Coca-Cola bottling plant in Lao, from left, are Van Hoang Dau, director of Lao Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Ltd.; H.E. Somsavat Lengsavad, Deputy Prime Minister of Lao People's Democratic Republic; Coca-Cola chairman and chief executive Muhtar Kent; and Pornwut Sarasin, chairman of Lao Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Ltd. and ThaiNamthip Limited.