Coca-Cola, Jubilant partner to boost profitability, announce new CEO for HCCB
The new partnership will focus on a multi-pronged strategy to enhance profitability
12 Aug 2025 | By WhatPackaging? Team
The move comes amid a backdrop of increased competitive pressure in the soft drink market
In a strategic move to sharpen focus on profitability and market execution, The Coca-Cola Company and the Jubilant Bhartia Group have formalised a partnership. The collaboration follows Jubilant Beverages' recent acquisition of a 40% stake in Hindustan Coca-Cola Holdings (HCCH), the parent company of Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB). The deal was announced on 23 July.
Executives familiar with the matter have revealed plans to streamline manufacturing, enhance the efficiency of last-mile distribution, and negotiate more cost-effective deals with suppliers.
Despite the Jubilant Bhartia Group's significant stake, an executive confirmed that HCCB will continue to operate under the guidance of its board, separate from Jubilant Beverages.
In a related development, HCCB has appointed Hemant Rupani, former president of Mondelez Southeast Asia, as its new chief executive. Rupani will officially take over the role on 8 September, succeeding CEO Juan Pablo Rodriguez.
Speaking on an earnings call last month, Coca-Cola Company CEO James Quincey stated that the collaboration between HCCB and the Jubilant Group will "bring some new energy, dynamism, focus, and pro-activity to the execution in the marketplace." He added, "With some re-energised focus on this transition bottler, we are pretty confident about where we're heading in India."
The move comes amid a backdrop of increased competitive pressure in the soft drink market. Reliance's Campa is expanding its national presence, and a rise in regional soft drink brands is taking market share from major players like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo. The industry has also faced recent seasonal challenges, including early monsoons, which have impacted summer sales.