The Coca-Cola Company and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) GB have joined forces as the Official Soft Drinks Partners for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, alongside their role as an Official Partner of Team Scotland. This collaboration promises to enhance the experience for attendees while emphasizing sustainability and community engagement.
Partnership Announcement
The partnership between the Commonwealth Games, Team Scotland, Coca-Cola, and CCEP was revealed at CCEP’s East Kilbride manufacturing site. Phil Batty OBE, CEO of Glasgow 2026, and Jon Doig OBE, Chief Executive of Team Scotland, were joined by Scottish athlete Eilidh Gorrell, who represented Team Scotland at Birmingham 2022, for a tour of local operations with CCEP’s Site Director for East Kilbride, Seamus Kerrigan. This event marks a significant moment as the Games return to Scotland for the first time since 2014.
Previous Engagements
CCEP is not new to the Commonwealth Games, having served as the Official Soft Drink Provider for the Birmingham 2022 Games. At Glasgow 2026, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater will serve as the Official Soft Drink, Sports Drink, and Water providers, respectively.
Sustainability Initiatives
In line with Glasgow 2026’s commitment to hosting a greener Games, CCEP is collaborating with environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful. Together, they aim to clean up the riverbanks adjacent to the Commonwealth Games sports venues near the River Clyde. CCEP will provide funding and volunteer support for this initiative.
The collected waste will contribute to the Royal Commonwealth Society’s Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign, which seeks to prevent one million plastic items from entering Commonwealth waterways before the Games begin. This campaign has been active as part of the King’s Baton Relay across all 74 Commonwealth nations and territories.
Recycling Efforts
CCEP will partner with venue waste management teams to enhance recycling initiatives during the Games. All CCEP bottles sold at venue outlets will be recyclable, with the 500ml range made entirely from recycled plastic.
Leadership Insights
Phil Batty OBE, Chief Executive of Glasgow 2026, stated: “We’re proud to welcome back one of the world’s most iconic brands to the Commonwealth Games sponsor family. Coca-Cola brings extensive experience in enhancing spectator enjoyment at major events while promoting sustainability, aligning with our goal of delivering a greener Games.”
“The remarkable team at East Kilbride manufactures a high-quality product locally in Scotland, and we’re eager to collaborate with them in the coming months.”
Stephen Moorhouse, General Manager at CCEP GB, commented: “Supporting the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow is particularly meaningful for us due to our strong local presence in East Kilbride. By working with our local partners, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on communities across Glasgow and ensuring an enjoyable experience for the thousands attending the Games.”
Seamus Kerrigan, Site Director at CCEP’s East Kilbride facility, added: “East Kilbride has been integral to our story in Scotland for over 60 years, making this the perfect place to announce our support for the Commonwealth Games as they return to Glasgow in 2026. This event is a significant opportunity for the country, and we are proud to contribute in a way that reflects our commitment to sustainability and local communities.”
Jon Doig OBE, Chief Executive of Team Scotland, remarked: “Coca-Cola’s dedication to community support, sustainability, and celebrating local Scottish manufacturing aligns with the values we uphold for Team Scotland athletes. We are excited to welcome this world-leading brand, deeply rooted in the local community, as a partner for Glasgow 2026.”
Key Takeaways
- The Coca-Cola Company and CCEP are the Official Soft Drinks Partners for Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
- Coca-Cola will provide Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater during the event.
- CCEP is committed to sustainability initiatives, including riverbank cleanups with Keep Scotland Beautiful.
- All bottles from CCEP sold at the venues will be recyclable, with some made from 100% recycled plastic.
- Coca-Cola’s experience in major events will enhance the spectator experience at Glasgow 2026.
FAQ
What roles will Coca-Cola and CCEP serve at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games?
They will act as the Official Soft Drinks Partners, providing various beverages during the Games.
How are Coca-Cola and CCEP supporting sustainability efforts?
They are partnering with Keep Scotland Beautiful to clean riverbanks and contribute to the Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign.
What specific products will Coca-Cola provide during the Games?
Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater will be the official drinks available at the venues.
Will the CCEP bottles be recyclable?
Yes, all CCEP bottles sold at the venues will be recyclable, with part of the product line made from 100% recycled plastic.
What is the significance of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games for CCEP?
This event is particularly meaningful as CCEP has strong roots in the local community through its East Kilbride operations.
