The event took place at the NBC Ikeja Plant, bringing together key executives, logistics and material handling equipment (MHE) partners, as well as other critical stakeholders.

Building upon its “zero is possible” agenda, which envisions a workplace and environment free from accidents, the program was designed as a platform for discussing best practices, sharing insights, and reinforcing the importance of safety in all its operations.

• A notable highlight during the event was the introduction of a recognition program for partners, wherein those scoring 75% or higher out of a possible 100% were eligible for a prestigious award.

In his opening address, Goran Sladic, managing director of Nigerian Bottling Company underscored the importance of safety with the company’s logistics and supply chain operations.

He commented:

“This unique program is designed to support and encourage participation from our valued partners in our safety metrics and vision across all our sites. At NBC, we prioritise safety and take practical steps to demonstrate this commitment. It is my vision that we will all go beyond what is being discussed here to inculcate the drive to ensure that business is conducted with the highest safety standards.”

A total of 17 Material Handling Equipment (MHE) partners attended the event, including AG Leventis, Cobil, AY Hussaini, Bawal, Yau Adamu, Medessey, GTJ, Futuris, Stratagem, Hamidu Bako, Basul Maiyaki, Aminbaks, Maotech, Bah Engineering, Bisedge, Pebnic, and more.

Ismaila Yusuf, country logistics director at Nigerian Bottling Company, articulated the programs profound impact, affirming, “At NBC, we see our partners as integral to our shared success, not just as service providers but as sustainable businesses poised to thrive for generations to come”.

“Our commitment to safety, sustainability, and health sets us apart as we prioritise the well-being of stakeholders through unique safety initiatives that ensure our partners, and their employees are always protected. This partnership program demonstrates our dedication to enhancing operations and fostering a culture of safety excellence,” he added.

The event featured a series of dynamic sessions, including workshops and compelling case studies spotlighting successful safety initiatives.

Participants were also given the opportunity to engage with the company, to discuss NBC’s safety guidelines, and network with peers. The program concluded with partners pledging their full support for the company’s vision.

As a responsible business, safety remains a core value across NBC’s operations. The company is committed to zero tolerance for failure to meet standards and has deployed maturity continuum measurement metrics.

This approach extends to the company’s key partners and suppliers, as they are required to obtain certification to the standards of quality, environment, and health & safety.

Nigerian Bottling Company continues to invest in programs and initiatives that enhance a safe and secure working environment for all people across its value chain.

With call for applications now open globally, Coca-Cola HBC is looking to partner with startups across the world to find the next viable, scalable packaging and packaging collection technologies.

According to a statement by the beverage giant, the winning solution will receive a monetary prize of 100,000 euros which will be awarded and paid by Coca-Cola HBC.

Commenting on the challenge, Zoran Bogdanovic, CEO of Coca-Cola HBC, said: “As a recognized leader in sustainability, we are looking to continually raise the bar to ensure that we support the socio-economic development of our communities and make a positive environmental impact”.

In his remark, Matthieu Seguin, the Managing Director of Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), said, “The beverage industry has a responsibility to take action to address the packaging challenge currently facing the world. In the Coca-Cola System, we have continued to work with our partners, suppliers, and key stakeholders to build and implement sustainable packaging and recycling models to frontally address these challenges.

“This competition will not only amplify the role of technology in addressing the global packaging challenge, but it will also provide an opportunity for us as Coca-Cola Hellenic Group to incubate viable start-ups and bring together a powerful ecosystem of experts and stakeholders to galvanize action towards a World Without Waste.”

This initiative is in line with the Company’s Mission 2025 Commitments, an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy that is at the heart of its operations.

In an ambitious move to accelerate its environmental sustainability priorities in 2021, the Company announced its commitment to achieving net zero emissions across its entire value chain by 2040.

These efforts, including its growing collection, primary and secondary packaging solutions, are geared towards achieving its overall vision for a World Without Waste.

How to APPLY for Coca-Cola HBC Global €100K Sustainability Challenge

Startup or technology companies with an idea past the MVP stage can apply.

 Click here to get more information about the challenge and click here to apply.

Deadline:

The deadline for submission is February 18, 2022.