Coca-Cola India Head Says ‘We’re Still In Crisis’ But Demand Recovering

Demand collapsed in the peak Indian summer for Coca-Cola India as the nation went into a lockdown to contain the pandemic. But the world's largest beverage maker said it's recovering fast as the economy reopens.

“I believe we are still in crisis due to the virus,” T Krishnakumar, president (CEO), Coca-Cola India and South West Asia, said in a press conference on Tuesday while launching two citric products. “But demand is coming through very well and it is increasing week on week.”

Consumption at restaurants, clubs and parties, one of the biggest contributors to demand for sugary sodas, has tumbled and people now mostly consume at homes. The beverage major made its products available on online platforms as consumption as home rose. People, Krishnakumar said, are opting for lower priced packs.