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Coca-Cola North America steps up spending with minority-owned media companies
Coca-Cola North America has announced plans to nearly double its spending with minority-owned media companies over the next three years . Black , Hispanic and Asian-American and Pacific Islander ( AAPI ) -owned and led media companies and partners will account for 8 % of the company ’ s total annual media budget in North America by 2024 .
“ Following a thorough analysis of our marketing spend , we recognised we could do more to support an equitable media landscape by creating growth opportunities for minority-owned and led outlets ,” said Melanie Boulden , Chief Marketing Officer , North America Operating Unit , The Coca-Cola Company .
Jet , Revolt TV and My Cultura , Coca-Cola will continue its legacy of partnership with longstanding and highly influential multicultural media outlets like Essence and Univision .
Caroline Wanga , CEO , Essence Communications , said : “ As the only 100 % Black-owned media company at scale dedicated to Black women and communities , we value our relationship with long-time partners like Coca-Cola who recognise the importance of Black women and Essence ’ s unique role in advancing Black culture , equity and celebration .”
“ We must take a leadership role , and that ’ s why we ’ re not only committing to increase our investment with minority-owned and led media companies , but also are focused on non-media partnerships and empowerment initiatives designed to foster growth and increase competitive advantage of minority businesses and communities .”
Coca-Cola North America is taking immediate action , boosting 2021 spending with minority-owned media 5x compared to 2020 . In addition to building relationships with newer partners like Ebony /
Batelco latest retail shop is one-of-its-kind in Bahrain
Batelco has opened a one-of-its-kind retail shop for Bahrain ’ s telecom sector in Zallaq . The new outlet features not only a walk-in shop but also a drivethru , and is completely cashless , in line with modern international retail trends . The shop will be open 24 / 7 , the first telco retail shop outside of the airport serving around the clock .
The shop is located in the vibrant and quickly developing Zallaq area , close to the BIC , University of Bahrain and exciting new tourist and business facilities that are currently being built , such as the new Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre . Visitors to the shop will notice its modern and free-flowing design , showcasing a wide range of the latest products and services and additionally a self-service kiosk .
Batelco ’ s General Manager Consumer Division , Maitham Abdulla , said : “ Batelco aims to create retail spaces that are more
inviting for its customers , and as part of that we are very excited to introduce this new 2-in-1 concept , with walk-in and drivethru options . This is in line with Batelco ’ s ambitions to continuously enhance the customer experience through added convenience and accessibility .
“ The store location in Zallaq is also very strategic as it enables us to cater to the residents and visitors of this flourishing area . While working on our digital advancement , it will always remain important that we have a physical presence to interact with customers face to face .” x
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