- The new rPET unit in Ploiesti is a 55 million RON investment, with 17.5 million RON in state aid.
- The facility will help transition Coca-Cola's entire portfolio to 100% rPET packaging by autumn.
- The Guarantee-Return System in Romania will become operational at the end of the year.
- Coca-Cola Romania invested approximately 1 billion lei in the last 5 years to improve production capacity.
Investment in rPET Manufacturing
The Coca-Cola system in Romania has installed a PET flake decontamination unit in its Ploiesti factory, marking the first time a beverage producer in Romania will manufacture recycled PET (rPET) for its packaging. This 55 million RON investment, including 17.5 million RON in state aid, supports the transition to 100% rPET packaging for Coca-Cola's entire product portfolio.
Operational Timelines
The new rPET production unit is set to become operational alongside Romania's Guarantee-Return System, which will be implemented by the end of the year. This system aims to boost the separate collection of plastic, glass, and aluminum beverage packaging, providing quality raw materials for manufacturers.
Recycling Process
In the Ploiesti factory, sorted PET packaging will be transformed into PET flakes, which will then undergo decontamination to meet food industry standards. The resulting rPET granules will be used to produce preforms and beverage containers, contributing to a circular packaging economy with reduced carbon emissions.
Long-Term Strategy
Over the past five years, Coca-Cola Romania has invested approximately 1 billion lei to enhance production capacity and efficiency. The new rPET line will facilitate the completion of the transition to 100% rPET packaging, significantly reducing carbon emissions, as rPET has an 80% lower carbon footprint than virgin PET resin. The facility also uses 100% renewable electricity.
