BLOEMFONTEIN. Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) intends to make adjustments to its organization, but no final decision has been made on the effects it will have on workers in Bloemfontein.
This is the response of Motshidisi Mokwena, head of communications and reputation of CCBSA on queries on weather the local plant will be closed.
“In response to evolving industry dynamics, CCBSA intends to make adjustments to its organization.”
She said if adjustments are made to the organization, and implemented, it may result in some roles begin impacted and may unfortunately result in job losses.
We have started a consultation process with unions and non-unionised employees who may be impacted,” she said to BloemNews. “Our priority is to support affected colleagues with fairness, transparency and compassion during the process.
David van Vuuren, the DA Spokesperson on Economic Development in the Free State Legislator says the possible closing of the production plant in Bloemfontein are concerning.
“With the Free State having the third-highest unemployment rate in the country, the issue of job security and the creation of further employment in the province is our number one concern. We have seen an alarming trend in other parts of the province and country, where companies are forced to end their operations due to the increased cost of running their businesses, Van Vuuren said.
“When large businesses close or alter their operations, the impact is usually felt immediately by the surrounding community. In some cases, the spin-off effects can be as devastating as the closure of the company. Local suppliers and service providers lose a major client, transport businesses collapse, informal markets and stalls around the company are forced to close, and there is significantly less money circulating in the local economy due to the loss of income.”
Van Vuuren says the DA want to see the government doing more to protect businesses of all scales and ensure the protection of our economy.
