Uttar Pradesh, with its population exceeding 240 million, is the most populous state in India. This region reflects the ethnic, linguistic, and religious diversity of the country, where northern and southern cultures intersect. The climate presents significant challenges, as temperatures can reach a scorching 50°C between March and July. Consequently, adequate hydration is crucial for residents’ well-being.
This situation underscores the immense potential within the beverage industry. Just 15 years ago, carbonated beverages were considered luxuries for affluent and middle-class families. However, accessibility has improved significantly, making soft drinks affordable for all societal strata—a noteworthy achievement given India’s logistical complexities.
Leading Coca-Cola Bottler in India
Coca-Cola India plays a pivotal role in this sector. The company primarily manages local brand marketing, while independent regional bottlers handle production and distribution. The largest of these, SLMG Beverages, consolidates four bottlers managed by the Ladhani brothers, who have been integral to Coca-Cola’s operations in Uttar Pradesh and surrounding areas for over three decades. Recently, the brothers expanded their influence by acquiring another bottler, extending their reach to Bihar, thus poised to cater to approximately 350 million people with soft drinks. One of SLMG’s eight bottling facilities is strategically located in Chhata, near the culturally significant Agra, home to the Taj Mahal.
Driving Growth with TriBlock
The latest addition to Chhata’s beverage lines is the InnoPET TriBlock, a modular block system that integrates a stretch blow molder, roll-fed labeler, and filler, optimized for space efficiency. This line can process up to 48,000 non-returnable PET bottles per hour, catering to sizes ranging from 250 milliliters to two liters. During peak seasons, the focus is primarily on single-serve formats. This bottling facility now produces around 15.4 million containers each year.
“In 2023, our output increased by nearly 35% compared to the previous year, and we anticipate a further 25% growth in 2024,” reveals Sriharsha Chilukuri, Senior General Manager at the plant. “Approximately 60% of our soft drinks are now produced in PET bottles on the new line.”
Rapid Execution
KHS and SLMG Beverages have established a long-standing partnership. “We’ve been sourcing machines from KHS since we began bottling for Coca-Cola,” states Chilukuri. The recent acquisition includes two Plasmax machines, which apply an ultra-thin glass coating to the interiors of PET bottles, effectively preserving flavor and extending shelf life by preventing oxygen ingress and carbon dioxide loss. The collaboration culminated in the successful deployment of the InnoPET TriBlock, renowned for its low operational energy consumption. Several technological advantages, including efficiency and an in-house roll-fed station for hot-melt, wrap-around label application, were instrumental in awarding KHS the contract. Notably, the rapid implementation—just 40 days from delivery to validation of the first bottle—was crucial, as 80% of the annual revenue occurs during this brief period.
Exceptional Performance
The local KHS team from their Ahmedabad production facility showcased exceptional professionalism. Alongside providing conveyors and palletizers manufactured on-site, they managed the line’s installation and commissioning. Dharmesh Baria, Project Manager for After Sales and Service at KHS, recalls, “During acceptance testing, the line operated for ten hours without disruption, achieving a performance rate of 99.96%.”
Local Presence as a Key Success Factor
Beyond technology, Chilukuri values the strong rapport between both companies. “Our relationship transcends standard OEM/customer dynamics. As business partners, we collaborate effectively as one cohesive team.” KHS’ local presence significantly contributes to this partnership—experts are always available for support, ensuring that they receive precisely the assistance required.
SLMG Beverages has ambitious growth plans. In recent years, the bottler has invested nearly €400 million in advanced plant engineering. The company has consistently experienced annual growth of about 20 to 25%. By 2025, they aim to surpass one billion euros in revenue, bolstered by regional expansion.
Consequently, SLMG Beverages is set to lead Coca-Cola sales in the world’s most populous nation, with steadfast support from KHS.
For more details, visit: https://www.khs.com/en/company/news/press-releases
Gain further insights in our video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmjHXXhkwUo
