The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games are set to be an exciting event, and the Coca-Cola Company, along with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) GB, will play a vital role as the Official Soft Drinks Partners. As the largest independent bottler of Coca-Cola in the world, their partnership promises to enhance the Games experience for attendees and participants alike.
The collaboration was announced at CCEP’s manufacturing site in East Kilbride. Phil Batty OBE, CEO of Glasgow 2026, Team Scotland’s Chief Executive Jon Doig OBE, and Scottish gymnast Eilidh Gorrell, who represented Team Scotland at Birmingham 2022, toured the facilities alongside CCEP’s Site Director, Seamus Kerrigan. This announcement marks a significant occasion as the Games return to Scotland for the first time since 2014.
Glasgow 2026 is scheduled to take place from July 23 to August 2, featuring four iconic venues across Glasgow. Approximately 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories will compete in ten sports and six Para sports. CCEP is a returning sponsor and previously served as the Official Soft Drink Provider for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
At the upcoming Glasgow 2026 Games, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater will be designated as the Official Soft Drink, Sports Drink, and Water providers, respectively.
In support of Glasgow 2026’s pledge for a more environmentally responsible event, CCEP is collaborating with environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful. This partnership will focus on cleaning up the riverbanks near the Commonwealth Games venues along the River Clyde. CCEP plans to contribute funding and volunteer support for this initiative.
The collected waste will support the Royal Commonwealth Society’s Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign. This campaign aims to prevent one million plastic pieces from entering Commonwealth waterways before the Games begin, aligning with the ongoing King’s Baton Relay across all 74 Commonwealth nations and territories.
CCEP will also collaborate closely with waste management teams at the venues to enhance recycling efforts throughout the Games. All bottles sold at venue outlets will be recyclable, with the 500ml range made entirely from recycled plastic.
Stephen Moorhouse, General Manager at CCEP GB, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Supporting the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow feels particularly special for us, because we have strong roots through our local operations in East Kilbride. Working with our partners on the ground, we’re focused on creating a positive impact for communities across Glasgow, and an enjoyable experience for the thousands of people set to attend the Games.”
Seamus Kerrigan, Site Director at CCEP’s East Kilbride facility, remarked, “East Kilbride is a big part of our story in Scotland; we’ve been manufacturing locally for over 60 years, so it feels like the right place to share this news as the Commonwealth Games return to Glasgow in 2026. Glasgow 2026 is an exciting moment for the country, and we’re proud to support the Games in a way that reflects our focus on sustainability and the communities around us.”
Phil Batty OBE, Chief Executive at Glasgow 2026, added, “We’re proud to welcome back one of the world’s most iconic brands to the Commonwealth Games sponsor family. Coca-Cola brings a wealth of experience in enhancing spectator experiences at major events while promoting sustainability, supporting our ambition to deliver the greenest Games yet.”
Jon Doig OBE, Chief Executive at Team Scotland, further emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “Coca-Cola’s commitment to supporting communities, promoting sustainability, and celebrating local Scottish manufacturing reflects the values we champion for Team Scotland athletes. We’re thrilled to welcome a world-leading brand that is deeply rooted in the local community as a partner for Glasgow 2026.”
Key Takeaways
- Coca-Cola and CCEP GB will be the official soft drinks partners for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
- The Games will take place from July 23 to August 2, 2026, featuring 3,000 athletes from 74 nations.
- Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater will serve as the official beverages for the event.
- CCEP is committed to sustainability by partnering with Keep Scotland Beautiful for river cleanup projects.
- All CCEP bottles at venue outlets will be recyclable and made from recycled materials.
FAQ
What significant role will Coca-Cola play at the Glasow 2026 Commonwealth Games?
Coca-Cola will be the Official Soft Drinks Partners, providing beverages and promoting sustainability efforts during the Games.
When and where will the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games take place?
The Games are scheduled from July 23 to August 2, 2026, across four venues in Glasgow.
How is CCEP contributing to sustainability during the Games?
CCEP is partnering with Keep Scotland Beautiful for river cleanup initiatives and ensuring all beverage containers are recyclable.
What types of beverages will be available at the Games?
Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater will be the official beverage providers for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
In conclusion, the partnership between Coca-Cola, CCEP, and the Commonwealth Games represents a significant commitment to enhancing the Games experience while prioritizing sustainability. As Glasgow gears up to host this prestigious event, the collaboration aims to make a lasting impact both for the community and the environment.
