Suntory Beverage and Food Nigeria recently acquired the distribution business of popular beverage brands, Lucozade and Ribena from GSK Nigeria.
The Managing Director of Suntory Beverage & Food Nigeria, Chinedum Okereke, recently spoke to the media for the first time since the acquisition.
These are excerpts of his speech:
“This is a clear demonstration of Suntory’s confidence in the Nigerian economy. The company relies on the strong connection between the Nigerian consumers and its Lucozade and Ribena brands and is especially confident of the nation’s immense potential for economic growth and the impressive productivity level of its people.
“Our conviction in the Nigerian market is responsible for the company’s decision to invest in the country and contribute to human resource empowerment to run the business as a wholly Nigerian company.”
According to the Suntory boss, “As a company, our desire is to consistently provide some of the country’s best quality drinks through well researched market insight, expertise and dedication and to also deliver high quality innovative products.“Lucozade and Ribena have enjoyed impressive patronage over the years, so with a promise of continuous improvement and providing better value to our consumers, we are convinced of an improved and more rewarding relationship. Innovation, research and development will play a big part in the foundation of our operations in Nigeria” he said.
“With Suntory’s global credentials and successes, Suntory Beverage & Food Nigeria will gain a solid platform into the Nigerian soft drinks industry for its iconic Lucozade and Ribena brands.