As millions gathered for the Maha Kumbh 2025, Coca-Cola India is supporting local communities through a retail network employment generation and hiring women. By enabling several local vendors, retailers, and waste workers, the company is providing hydration and attempting to create lasting economic opportunities.
According to a press release, Coca-Cola India’s retail and distribution ecosystem aligned with CM Yogi Adityanath’s vision to enhance Uttar Pradesh’s economic growth and global prominence. Coca-Cola India, along with SLMG Beverages, has stationed 500 hydration carts operated by local vendors. These carts aimed to ensure easy access to beverages and empower small businesses. Additionally, coolers at food courts and retail outlets ensure chilled beverages, boosting sales and incomes for local vendors.
Sundeep Bajoria, VP of operations at Coca-Cola India said, “The Maha Kumbh is not just a cultural phenomenon—it is a massive economic engine, made possible through the Uttar Pradesh government’s proactive planning and support for businesses. This has enabled our retail ecosystem to serve millions of visitors efficiently while fostering economic growth. With the deep market expertise of our bottling partner SLMG Beverages, we ensure seamless availability of our beverages while creating economic opportunities for vendors and entrepreneurs. From hydration carts to cooler deployment to retail outlets, this model is driving local employment, strengthening businesses, and contributing to socio-economic growth at scale.”
Costin Mandrea, chief executive officer, SLMG Beverages said, ” At SLMG Beverages, we are enhancing the Maha Kumbh 2025 experience by leveraging our robust retail and distribution network. Through strategic partnerships with food courts, retail outlets, and hydration carts, we are ensuring hydration for visitors. This approach not only optimizes supply chain efficiency but also empowers local vendors, drives economic growth, and creates job opportunities, aligning with our shared commitment with Coca-Cola India to generate a lasting community impact.”
Women workforce is at the forefront of this initiative. With access to training for over 5,000 women retailers across UP, women are managing hydration carts and retail counters.
In alignment with its global sustainability goals, Coca-Cola India has implemented several eco-friendly initiatives at the Maha Kumbh. Installation of Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) at the festival grounds makes sustainability seamless, while cleaners, boatmen, and volunteers receive jackets crafted from recycled PET bottles.
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Naresh Khanna – 10 February 2025
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