Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) GB, renowned as the largest independent bottler of Coca-Cola worldwide, recently hosted representatives from the Commonwealth Games at its East Kilbride facility. This event highlighted their partnership as the Official Soft Drinks Partner for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and an Official Partner of Team Scotland.
Attendees included Phil Batty OBE, CEO of Glasgow 2026, Jon Doig OBE, Chief Executive of Team Scotland, and Eilidh Gorrell, a member of Team Scotland’s gymnastics team. They toured the local operations alongside Seamus Kerrigan, CCEP’s Site Director for East Kilbride, as the Commonwealth Games prepare to return to Scotland for the first time since 2014.
The collaboration between the Commonwealth Games, Team Scotland, Coca-Cola, and CCEP was unveiled in anticipation of Glasgow 2026, scheduled from July 23 to August 2. The event will take place across four iconic venues in Glasgow, accommodating 3,000 athletes representing 74 nations and territories competing in ten sports and six Para sports.
During the Glasgow 2026 Games, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater will be designated as the Official Soft Drink, Sports Drink, and Water providers, respectively.
All CCEP bottles sold at venue outlets will be recyclable, with the 500ml bottles crafted from 100% recycled plastic. CCEP intends to collaborate closely with venue waste management teams to enhance recycling initiatives.
Eilidh Gorrell, Birmingham 2022 Team Scotland Gymnast & Glasgow 2026 hopeful, said: “It’s absolutely brilliant to see a brand like Coca-Cola supporting this year’s Commonwealth Games. As someone that’s grown up in East Kilbride, it was a real pleasure to be part of the launch and to have the opportunity to meet the staff, who like me are local to the area and passionate about the work they do.”
Stephen Moorhouse, General Manager at CCEP GB, said: “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, said: “East Kilbride is a big part of our story in Scotland; we’ve been manufacturing locally for over 60 years. 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 joins us with a wealth of experience in elevating spectator experience at major events, while also encouraging behavior change regarding sustainability, which supports our ambition to deliver the greenest Games yet.”
“The incredible team at East Kilbride are manufacturing a world-class product locally in Scotland, and we’re looking forward to working with them over the coming months.”
Jon Doig OBE, Chief Executive at Team Scotland, added: “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 so deeply embedded within the local community as a partner for Glasgow 2026.”
Key Takeaways
- Coca-Cola is the Official Soft Drinks Partner for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
- The Games will be hosted from July 23 to August 2, 2026, featuring 3,000 athletes from 74 nations.
- All bottles sold at the venues will be recyclable, with a range made from 100% recycled plastic.
- Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater will be the designated drinks for the event.
- The partnership aims to create a positive impact on local communities and promote sustainability.
FAQ
What is the timeline for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games?
The Games are scheduled to take place from July 23 to August 2, 2026.
Who are the main beverage partners for the Games?
Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater will serve as the Official Soft Drink, Sports Drink, and Water providers, respectively.
Where will the events be held?
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held across four iconic venues in Glasgow.
How is Coca-Cola contributing to sustainability during the Games?
Coca-Cola plans to sell recyclable bottles, including a range made from 100% recycled plastic, and collaborate with waste management teams to enhance recycling efforts.
In conclusion, Coca-Cola’s partnership with the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games showcases a commitment to community and sustainability as the event approaches. Engaging local athletes and fostering a green initiative highlights their dedication to both the games and the environment.
