Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa, a subsidiary of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, announced a restructuring plan on September 17, 2025, that includes closing bottling plants in Bloemfontein and East London, leading to over 680 job losses amid financial pressures and efforts to boost operational efficiency. The company recently invested $20.5 million in a new centralized facility in Midrand and plans to offer separation packages to affected workers.
The Food and Allied Workers Union has pledged legal action against the layoffs, citing violations of collective bargaining, while public reactions on social media highlight concerns over illicit trade, government policies, and South Africa’s 33% unemployment rate, reflecting broader corporate downsizing trends.
