The Coca-Cola System in Bulgaria Recognized as “Investor in Society” at the BBLF Annual Responsible Business Awards

The company was honored for its long-term investments in people, communities, and the sustainable development of Bulgaria

The Coca-Cola System in Bulgaria won first place in the “Investor in Society” category at the 23rd edition of the Annual Responsible Business Awards, organized by the Bulgarian Business Leaders Forum (BBLF). A total of 32 companies and initiatives took part in the category, and the award was presented by Bulgaria’s Acting Prime Minister, Andrey Gyurov.

“This award is especially meaningful to us, as it reflects the year when Coca-Cola marked 60 years of development shared with Bulgarian society. Six decades in which we have stood - and will continue to stand - by people’s side, not only in times of celebration and positive initiatives, but also in difficult moments when support is most needed,” said Maria Mikova, External Communications Manager at Coca-Cola HBC Bulgaria, during the ceremony. She added: “We believe that success only matters if it leaves a mark. And that a company is defined not only by the quality of its products and the strength of its brand, but by what it does for the people around it.”

The award recognizes The Coca-Cola System in Bulgaria for its long-term investments in people, communities, and the country’s sustainable future, as well as for its strategic approach to corporate social responsibility with measurable impact. The recognition reflects the company’s initiatives addressing key societal challenges, including youth employment, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, environmental protection, and community support. Among these initiatives are the #YouthEmpowered educational program, which has trained nearly 36,000 young people since its launch in 2017; Coca‑Cola HBC Bulgaria’s flagship initiative “My Green City”; partnerships within the “Living Danube,” “Sustainability Academy,” and “The Hidden Talents of Bulgaria” programs; as well as targeted donations supporting vulnerable groups and communities, including a contribution of 200,000 BGN to the National Association of Volunteers in the Republic of Bulgaria in response to the forest fire crisis.

These projects are implemented in partnership with organizations such as WWF‑CEE, Junior Achievement Bulgaria, Social Innovation Solutions, Cleantech Bulgaria and UBB, “Operation Teddy Bear,” NAVRB, universities, NGOs and local authorities, all contributing to the sustainable execution and long-term impact of the initiatives.

Over the past year, The Coca-Cola System in Bulgaria marked 60 years since the production of the first bottle of Coca-Cola in the country - a symbol of long-standing presence, sustainable growth, and commitment to local communities. According to an independent study by Steward Redqueen, between 2014 and 2024 The System’s economic contribution exceeded EUR 3.8 billion in added value. In 2024 alone, it contributed EUR 590 million to the Bulgarian economy, supported more than 17,300 jobs across the value chain (0.5% of total employment in the country), and invested EUR 120 million in goods and services from local suppliers.