Monterrey, N.L., Mexico, May 16, 2008– Embotelladoras Arca, S.A.B. de C.V. (“Arca” or “the Company”), the second-largest Coca-Cola bottler in Mexico and Latin America, announced today that it has signed a purchase agreement with the shareholders of the Coca-Cola franchise in the northeast region of Argentina(the “Bottler”), and will assume control shortly.
The Bottler operates in the provinces (states) of Chaco, Corrientes, Formosa, Misiones, and the northern part of the Santa Fe province, serving a population of nearly 4 million. In 2007, the Bottler’s sales volume totaled approximately 33 million unit cases.
“This transaction will allow Arca to consolidate the leadership of Coca-Cola products in northern Argentina, and multiply the opportunities to create value. One again, Arca wishes to thank The Coca-Cola Company for its support and confidence in making this acquisition happen, and reinforce our commitment to continue working together in the Latin American region”, commented Francisco Garza Egloff, Chief Executive Officer of Arca.
About Arca
Arca produces, distributes and sells beverages under The Coca-Cola Company brand and proprietary brands. Arca was formed in 2001 through the merger of three of the oldest bottlers in Mexico making it the second-largest bottler in Latin America. The Company, headquartered in Monterrey, serves the northern region of Mexico in the states of Tamaulipas, Nuevo Leon, Coahuila, Chihuahua, Sonora, Sinaloa, Baja California and Baja California Sur. Arca also produces and distributes Bokados brand snack foods.