In an exciting announcement for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, an East Kilbride-based bottler has secured its role as the official soft drinks partner for the 2026 event. This partnership highlights the commitment to community engagement and sustainability in the lead-up to this prestigious sporting extravaganza.
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) GB, the largest independent bottler of Coca-Cola worldwide, will provide a range of beverages to venues across Glasgow, including Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater.
The announcement was made during a visit to CCEP’s East Kilbride facility by Phil Batty OBE, CEO of Glasgow 2026, along with Team Scotland’s chief executive, Jon Doig OBE, and Team Scotland gymnast Eilidh Gorrell.
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East Kilbride Coca-Cola bottler announced as soft drinks partner for Glasgow 2026 Com (Image: Supplied)
Seamus Kerrigan, site director at CCEP’s East Kilbride location, stated, “East Kilbride is a significant part of our narrative in Scotland, having been manufacturing locally for over 60 years. It feels appropriate to share this news as the Commonwealth Games return to Glasgow in 2026.”
He further elaborated, “Glasgow 2026 presents an exciting opportunity for the country, and we take pride in supporting the Games in a manner that emphasizes sustainability and community engagement.”
Phil Batty OBE, the CEO of Glasgow 2026, remarked, “We’re delighted to welcome back one of the world’s most iconic brands into the Commonwealth Games sponsorship family.”
“Coca-Cola brings extensive experience in enhancing spectator experiences at major events, while also fostering sustainable practices that align with our goal of holding the greenest Games yet,” he added.
“The dedicated team at East Kilbride is producing world-class products locally in Scotland, and we anticipate a fruitful collaboration in the months leading up to the Games.”
All CCEP bottles available at venue outlets will be recyclable, with the 500ml range crafted entirely from recycled plastic.
Stephen Moorhouse, general manager at CCEP GB, expressed, “Participating in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow holds special significance for us due to our strong local roots in East Kilbride.”
“Collaborating with our local partners, we aim to create a positive impact for the communities in Glasgow and enhance the experience for the thousands of attendees expected at the Games.”
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place from July 23 to August 2, marking the first time since 2014 that Scotland will host the event.
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East Kilbride Coca-Cola bottler announced as soft drinks partner for Glasgow 2026 Com (Image: Supplied)
Eilidh Gorrell, a gymnast with Team Scotland during Birmingham 2022 and a hopeful for Glasgow 2026, mentioned, “It’s fantastic to see a brand like Coca-Cola supporting this year’s Commonwealth Games.”
“Having grown up in East Kilbride, it was a pleasure to participate in the launch and meet the team, who are equally passionate about their work in the local area,” she added.
Jon Doig OBE, chief executive at Team Scotland, further commented, “Coca-Cola’s commitment to community support, environmental responsibility, and celebrating local Scottish manufacturing aligns with the values we promote for our athletes.”
“We are excited to welcome such a prominent brand that has strong ties to the local community as a partner for Glasgow 2026.”
Key Takeaways
- Coca-Cola Europacific Partners will serve as the official soft drinks partner for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
- The partnership aims to promote sustainability by using recyclable bottles and 100% recycled plastic for certain products.
- The Games will take place from July 23 to August 2, 2026, marking the return of the event to Scotland after 2014.
- Local engagement and community impact are central to CCEP’s participation in the Games.
FAQ
What beverages will be supplied for the Commonwealth Games?
CCEP will provide Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Powerade, and Smartwater, among other drinks at the venues.
Where will the Games be held?
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place across various venues in Glasgow, Scotland.
What is CCEP’s commitment to sustainability?
All bottles sold at the venues will be recyclable, and the 500ml range will be made from 100% recycled plastic.
Who is involved in the announcement?
The announcement featured CCEP representatives, Team Scotland executives, and notable athletes such as gymnast Eilidh Gorrell.
Overall, the partnership between CCEP and the Commonwealth Games presents an exciting opportunity to showcase local manufacturing and sustainability efforts within the community, while enhancing the experience for all attendees during the Games.
