…commissions new production line in Nigeria

…honours long-serving staff

By Efe Onodjae

Big Bottling Company Ltd. (BBC), a subsidiary of the global beverage giant, AJE Group, and makers of popular brands such as Big Cola and Cifrut, has commissioned a new beverage production line to ramp up output and deepen market penetration across Nigeria.

The new line, unveiled during a colourful ceremony at the company’s facility, is expected to significantly scale production across multiple pack sizes and strengthen the company’s distribution capacity in response to increasing consumer demand.

Speaking at the commissioning, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of AJE, Mr. Hernan Córdova, described the development as “a new turn of events” in the company’s operations, adding that the expansion aligns with AJE 2.0 – the group’s transformational strategy targeted at improving productivity, increasing market share, boosting sales and enhancing customer satisfaction.

The event also featured a special recognition segment to honour long-serving staff and reinforce team spirit within the company. Workers who have demonstrated exceptional commitment over the years were honoured with awards in a celebration that blended industrial milestone with staff appreciation.

Commercial Director of BBC, Mr. Dennis Cunliffe, said the commissioning had a three-fold objective – unveiling the production line, deepening staff bonding, and honouring employees who have remained steadfast in their service to the company.

“We felt the need to appreciate and celebrate staff that stood with us through thick and thin,” he stated.

Echoing the same sentiment, Mr. Torres assured employees of management’s commitment to their welfare and continuous recognition. “We are happy to appreciate and put smiles on the faces of all our staff, especially the awardees, as we celebrate this special day,” he noted, adding that future editions of the event would be even more impactful.

Chairman of the organising committee, Mr. Olayinka Akerele, also lauded the initiative, describing it as a clear demonstration of the company’s commitment to innovation and staff motivation. He urged employees to remain focused and forward-looking.

The investment in the new production line comes at a time of rising prospects in Nigeria’s carbonated soft drinks market. Industry data from StrategyHelix Group projects the sector to grow by over $2.2 billion in the next five years, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1%.

Big Bottling Company, which serves as the Nigerian bottling arm of the Peru-headquartered AJE Group, operates under the ownership of UK-based private equity firm, DUET Group. The group acquired majority ownership of AJEAST Nigeria Limited in 2018, with investments exceeding $50 million.

The company’s flagship products include BIG Orange, BIG Tropical, BIG Green Apple, and BIG Water, available in 650ml, 525ml, and 360ml pack sizes.