Baku: The Carlsberg Group is set to expand its partnership with PepsiCo by becoming the official bottler for the company in Azerbaijan starting January 1, 2027, APA reports. This strategic move will allow Carlsberg to oversee the production, sale, and distribution of PepsiCo's soft drinks within Azerbaijan.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Carlsberg will continue using PepsiCo's current bottler, Mars Overseas, while investing in significant upgrades to its own plant in Khirdalan. This includes reconstruction and capacity expansion to accommodate the increased production demands.

This agreement marks Carlsberg's entry into its 15th market as a PepsiCo bottler, joining countries such as the UK, Ireland, and several Nordic and Baltic states. The collaboration highlights both companies' dedication to enhancing their beverage operations in Azerbaijan and supporting sustainable growth.

Jacob Aarup-Andersen, CEO of Carlsberg Group, expressed enthusiasm for the expansion, noting the addition of PepsiCo's brands to Carlsberg's local beer offerings as a significant growth opportunity. Krasimir Lazarov, Managing Director of Carlsberg Azerbaijan, emphasized the partnership's potential to double production volumes, attract new investments, and create jobs, positioning the company as a leading beverage producer in the region.