Minister of Trade and Industry Paula Gopee-Scoon toured the Caribbean Bottlers Trinidad and Tobago Ltd. (CBTTL) plant in Macoya to observe first-hand the company’s manufacturing operations, innovation and export capacity.
At the tour on Thursday, discussions focused on several pivotal aspects of CBTTL’s operations locally and touched on strategies for promoting further growth in T&T, the economic significance of the region, and the export expansion plans of the company.
The tour showcased live bottling and packaging along the company’s recently expanded seven lines, which has increased production capacity for 15 beverage brands in the market.
Gopee-Scoon noted the Coca-Cola Company’s global sustainability initiatives such as World Without Waste, and local investments in Every Bottle Back T&T, a national programme launched in May 2022 with industry partners to collect and recycle plastic beverage containers and other beverage packaging.
Louis Balat, president of Coca-Cola Company, emphasised the strategic importance of the country to Coca-Cola's operations in the Caribbean, stating, "T&T is a key market for us, and our operations here are crucial for serving the wider Caribbean region. Exploring new markets and expanding our export capabilities will not only boost our business but also strengthen Trinidad and Tobago's position as a hub for high-quality products within the Caribbean and beyond."
Meanwhile, Alberto Rivera, senior vice president and chief financial officer addressed future investments in the local market, noting, "We are committed to investing in local talent and technology through CBTTL to drive economic growth. Our presence here is not just about business; it's about creating jobs and building careers. We are dedicated to providing meaningful employment opportunities that benefit the local community."
Further reinforcing the company’s growth objectives, Camille Chatoor, general manager of CBTTL expressed enthusiasm for future initiative.
"With continuous innovation and investments, Caribbean Bottlers Ltd is poised for significant growth. We look forward to further collaboration with the Ministry of Trade and Industry to achieve our shared goals.”
The Ministry of Trade and Industry adds that in its role to facilitate business growth, trade, and investment expansion. T&T’s estimated exports in the food and beverage sector were valued at TT$3.2 billion in 2023. Among the top exported commodities were cereals, aerated waters and other waters (sweetened/flavoured/mineral), aromatic bitters, other non-alcoholic beverages, and chocolate and cocoa preparations.