Will Going Red Keep Coca Cola in the Black

The Coca Cola Company continues to foster their long-term committment to China in a 3 year, $2 Billion investment plan.  Coca Cola has viewed China as one of the world's largest and fastest growing beverage markets.  Recently, the Coca-Cola Company and its bottling partner, COFCO Coca-Cola Beverages Ltd., continued their expansion in China by opening two new bottling facilities in less developed central and western China.  Following the two new additions, Coca Cola will operate 38 bottling plants in China.

http://www.thecoca-colacompany.com/presscenter/nr_20090624_two_plant_openings_in_china.html

Power through Integration

More amazing than the products themselves is the Coca Cola Company's distribution system.  The Coca Cola Company pursues forward integration by purchasing distributors, making strategic allinces with distributors, and selling soft drink syrup to retailers.  Most recently Coca Cola signed an agreement with Dr Pepper Snapple Group, Inc. to distribute certain DPS brands.
http://www.thecoca-colacompany.com/presscenter/nr_20100603_snapple.html

And the Differentiation Continues...

What beeter company can represent the broad differentiation strategy than Coca Cola.  Since its beginning, Coke has diversified into many products.  It began in 1960 when they acquired Minute Maid Corpoation, a producer of fruit drinks.  It also merged with Duncan Foods Corporation, bought the Belmont Springs Water Company Inc. which produces bottled spring water, acquired Aqua Chem Inc and Taylor Wines Company, just to name a few. The Coca Cola Company also expanded its product line by producing Fanta, Sprite, TAB, Fresca and diet colas.

Coke Culture: When a strength becomes a weakness

Coca Cola may be considered one of the greatest brands.  Former CEO Neville Isdell once said "the specialness of Coca-Cola permeates the company and is part of the very positive elements of the culture."  Coca Cola has a tremendous reach, with an excellent manufacturing and distribution system.  However, much like many other companies, Coca Cola was forced to lay off workers during the economic downturn.  Many employees looked at Coke as lifetime employment and feel their trust has been broken.

http://www.beverage-digest.com/editorial/041008.php