Beverages
Global companies dominate the bottling and distribution of beverages/soft drinks. Restructuring is a constant feature of the sector due to changes in consumer preference, the introduction of sugar taxes and the concentration of power in a few large franchised bottlers through mergers and acquisitions. Factory closures and rising employment insecurity are all too common.
The world’s largest beverage companies, Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, bottle and sell soft drinks, waters, juices and energy drinks. The rise of so-called independent bottlers and the weakening of trade union and human rights due diligence through the companies’ supply chains are undermining workers’ rights.
Against this background, the IUF Global Coca-Cola Workers Alliance, established formally in 2008, and the IUF PepsiCo and Frito Lay Unions Network, founded formally in 2010, provide platforms to build stronger international union organization. Strengthening our power and improving trade union rights are key priorities along with freedom from discrimination, a safe and healthy workplace, direct employment, fair wages, and decent conditions of work and protections throughout the supply chain.
