First Coca-Cola plant opens in Gaza
The new plant adds 120 direct jobs and 1,200 indirect jobs to workers, suppliers and distributors; 'The opening of the company's first plant in the Gaza Strip is an important milestone in the journey that proves the immense commercial opportunities that exist.'
Expectations were high in the Gaza Strip in the months leading up to the opening of the plant not only because it meant an end to the import of coke products through border crossings, but also because of the 120 direct jobs and 1,200 indirect jobs the plant brings to workers, suppliers and distributors.
The factory was built under the close supervision of Coca-Cola to make sure it met the company's standards. The factory covers 15,000 square meters and has one production line capable of producing 36,000 glass bottles an hour.
The opening of the factory is only in the preliminary stages and is expected to grow to employ at least 300 people.
Chairman of the Palestinian National Beverage Company, businessman Zahi Khouri, said, "The opening of the company's first plant in the Gaza Strip is an important milestone in the journey that proves the immense commercial opportunities that exist."
