The Coca-Cola system in Myanmar has actively led relief and rebuilding efforts since early-August, when heavy seasonal rains and Cyclone Komen caused flooding and landslides in 12 of Myanmar’s 14 states and regions, the company reported on its website on 28 September.
Coca-Cola Myanmar, led by its local bottling partner Coca-Cola Pinya Beverages Myanmar (CCPBM), has responded by providing immediate relief to flood-affected communities through its strong and engaged network of local employees, extensive distribution system and cross-sector partnerships.
More than 450 Coca-Cola employees in Myanmar have volunteered their time and direct assistance on relief and rebuild visits to assist flood-affected communities by bringing donations of water, food and other essential items. Through these visits and other direct deliveries, Coca-Cola Myanmar has donated approximately 350,000 bottles of local brand Max2O water to communities in need.
In addition, the Coca-Cola Foundation donated US$100,000 to long-time partner, the American Red Cross, for emergency relief. Coca-Cola Myanmar employees also raised funds for the Myanmar Red Cross Society in an employee donation matching program. Coca-Cola staff in Mandalay teamed up with NGO Pact to provide food and water donations to affected villages in Sagaing, which participate in Coca-Cola Myanmar’s women’s empowerment program, Swan Yi.
As flood response efforts transition from immediate relief to long-term rebuilding, Coca-Cola Myanmar continues to support flood-affected communities. A Retailers Relief Fund has been set up to support small, independent retailers whose stores have been damaged by replacing coolers and stock.
Coca-Cola Myanmar has also converted its remaining 2015 Happiness Journey concerts, scheduled to take place in Shwe Bo, Myeik and Yangon, into fundraising events with all the money raised going to long-term community rebuilding programs with the Myanmar Red Cross Society, Pact and Network Activities Group.