He is young, dynamic and visionary, with a dedicated mission to understand the needs of
Coca Cola lovers and satiate them without fail! Meet Mr Mohamed Akeel, Managing Director of Coca Cola, Bahrain & Qatar, as he speaks to us about the glorious journey ofCoca Cola since its inception.
Coca Cola has completed 25 years! What have been the company’s various modes of celebrating this special anniversary?
Coca Cola Bottling Company of Bahrain started its operation on May 25th, 1991. Our celebrations over the years have been mainly internal, where we appreciate the efforts of our employees and their families. This year as we are celebration 25th anniversary, we decided to share this special occasion with our customers and consumer with exciting offers around Bahrain. May 8th also marked a 130th anniversary of the Coca Cola brand. This years’ global celebration featured ‘Coca Cola Customer Appreciation Week’, a fun initiative to engage with our customers by sharing with them an ice cold Coke.
Please tell us briefly about yourself and your association with Coca Cola.
I was born and raised in India. I hold an MBA and before joining Coca Cola system I was working in the sales field. For the past 19 years, my heart belongs to Coca Cola. Until today, I remember my recruitment interview and how proud I was of myself when I got the opportunity to join this family of Coke.
How has Coca Cola grown in its presence in the GCC since the time of its first establishment?
As a global brand, we play a responsible role in the economic growth of the country. In 2016 we have 230 employees, more than 6000 customers around Bahrain, a strong partnership with local suppliers, banks and governmental establishments. Over the years we have expanded our portfolio to ensure that we meet and satisfy the changing needs of our consumers. We also engage with our community in Bahrain through marketing activities, most recent was ‘Share a Coke’, sponsorships, charitable initiatives, etc.
What have been the various challenges that the company has faced in the last two decades and how has it overcome them?
Within 25 years, our business reached to a leadership position in the NARTD (Non-Alcoholic Ready to Drink) beverages market. We have established a strong position, which would not be possible without having the trust of our consumers and customers. Our challenge remains similar to any other business, which is keeping up with changing consumer preferences. We continue to build our brand portfolio by driving innovation that meet the market demands.
With so many soft drinks in the market, how does Coca Cola maintain its rank in the market?
Coca Cola has been refreshing its consumers around the world for the past 130 years in every beverage category. We are committed to providing a variety of products for every lifestyle and occasion. That is one of the reasons why we have more than 500 sparkling and still brands.
How does Coca Cola combat the health concerns of its composition in the day and age of extreme fitness consciousness and weight?
As mentioned above, we are committed to providing a variety of beverages. We understand the needs of our consumers, depending on their lifestyle and dietary needs. Our portfolio includes low and no-calorie beverages, water and juice drinks, giving a wide choice to our consumers to suit their hydration needs.
How has the reception for Coke been over the years in Bahrain?
Since 1991 we have grown along with our customers, that play an important role in our success in Bahrain. They are the key in ensuring that the worlds’ most iconic brand is within arm’s reach of our consumer. We value our customers and consumers and will continue to do so.
How has Coke withstood the growing advancements of technology, the increasing need of presence in the online platforms and engagement with the social media?
There is a lot of talk of how the Internet has revolutionized the cycle of supply, demand and consumption. One thing though that’s never going to be deliverable in pixels is a cold drink, best enjoyed in a bottle that is indisputably a classic of modern design.
Where does Coca Cola see itself in the next decade?
As we embark on a journey from good to great, we see a horizon full of opportunities to further continue to define ourselves in our pursuit of growth, leadership and engagement with our stakeholders.
What is your message to the Coke lovers?
Thank you for loving this iconic brand. We are committed to continue bringing happiness moments at every occasion, be it with your family or friends.