“Coca-Cola has lowest attrition amongst peers!” India chief shuns rumours of major exit

Venkatesh Kini, President of Coca-Cola India, has shunned rumours regarding major attrition in the company.

"When there is a reshuffling of roles, which we have done in recent months, there is bound to be speculation. We continue to have the lowest attrition among peer companies," he told ET.

Speculations are rife, at least a couple of senior officials have resigned at the India unit of world's largest maker of fizzy drinks. Kini, after denying such developments, said that what has happened is a routine reshuffle of roles, and some managers have been promoted to leadership roles in overseas markets.

Also read: The four characteristics that Coca-Cola India looks for in an employee

He also talked about the urban consumers’ growing demand for noncarbonated beverages, saying that the issue is being addressed by adjusting its portfolio so that drinks with less or no sugar can also be incorporated.

In the recent past, owing to the growing concerns for health, there has been a stellar shift in the demand of non-carbonated drinks, which now account for 40% of Coca-Cola India's sales.

Also read: Coca-Cola and Pepsico feel threatened by regional brands of soft drinks as sales decline

This has led to the company launching Fuze iced tea, dairy brand Vio, fortified enhanced water brand Aquarius and coconut water Zico, so that loyal customers don’t have to move out of the company’s umbrella to get the drink of their choice.

He also said that even though there has been a change in the way consumers look at aerated and carbonated drinks, their biggest concerns are still safe hydration, accessibility and affordability, and not sugar.

Talking about the future plans, he said that non-cola drinks, sports drinks, dairy, ready-to-drink tea and coffee, and flavoured waters would be the areas of focus.

(Image source: Coca-cola India)