Aujan Coca Cola Beverages announces heavy investment plans

Saudi Arabia-based Aujan Coca Cola Beverages, which makes and distributes Rani and Barbican drinks in the Middle East, plans to invest $500 million over the next three years in the regional beverage industry towards capacity expansion, a greater geographical coverage for its drinks and in brand development.

“Despite political and economic disruption over the past few years, the regional beverage market has continued to grow, and we expect this to continue owing to an increasing youthful population in the MENA region, coupled with together with opportunities for new categories and fresh consumer-focused innovations,” says Aujan chief executive Nicolaas Nusmeier.

Aujan’s volume grew by double-digit in 2014, as the company completed the acquisition of a majority stake in National Beverage, the manufacturer and distributor of Coca-Cola, Pampa and several other brands in Lebanon. Currently the company is investing in a factory in Egypt to supply the country and expand into other African markets.