Branding and CSR: How Coca-Cola Company protects its multi-billion dollar brand image through community-based water projects.
Potable water for communities is a key element of a safe and healthy lifestyle. Access to potable water for drinking, cooking and cleaning is a basic need for everyone, but in many parts of the world, safe water is still a dream. It is predicted that over the course of the next 20 years, the situation will become worse, as more water resources are contaminated or disappear while the water needs of a growing population will only increase. In Vietnam, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, an estimated 40% of rural communities still lack access to clean water. Water-borne illnesses, such as cholera and dysentery, are only one of the hazards of a poor drinking supply. Although the government has an important role to play in providing clean water, the private sector – especially those companies that rely on water for their business operations – also needs to contribute expertise and resources to fulfill a basic human need in the communities where they operate.
Company introduction
The Coca-Cola Company is the world’s leading beverage company and perhaps the most recognized brand name in the world. Operating in 200 countries with a diverse product range consisting of an astounding 500 brands and 3,300+ beverages, the company considers the “Coca-Cola” name itself worth billions of dollars. Protecting its brand image and reputation, therefore, is a key priority for Coca-Cola management.
Coca-Cola’s mission is stated simply as “At the Coca-Cola Company, we strive to refresh the world, inspire moments of optimism and happiness, create value and make a difference”. Coca-Cola’s vision:
“serves as the framework for our Roadmap and guides every aspect of our business by describing what we need to accomplish in order to continue achieving sustainable, quality growth:
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