FAWU vows to challenge looming job cuts at Coca-Cola SA

A worker stands next to a shelf with bottles of Coca-Cola at Makro in Riversands, Midrand on 28 August 2019.

Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa is currently undergoing a restructuring process that could see over 680 jobs cuts.

According to a document seen by SABC News, the company cites financial constraints as a primary reason for this decision and has committed to supporting affected employees with a “generous separation package”.

As part of the plan, the beverages giant intends to close its plants in both Bloemfontein and East London.

However, Deputy General-Secretary of the Food and Allied Workers Union (FAWU) Edwin Mabowa has vowed to challenge the looming retrenchments, accusing the employer of going behind its back in an attempt to negotiate directly with workers.

“Before we can even have our first meeting with the CCMA, the company is going behind our backs and consulting with the employees individually or otherwise to an extent that they are telling you that first phase and the second phase is completed. According to the union, there is no first and second phase. The company served us with the notice which was coupled with an application to the CCMA with is commencing on the 19^th of September 2025, this Friday.”