News ReleaseCOCA-COLA
de ARGENTINA FILES CRIMINAL COMPLAINT AGAINST DANONE ARGENTINA AND EURO RSCG B.A.
EXECUTIVES BASED ON UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES BUENOS AIRES, July 12,
2007 - Coca-Cola
de Argentina filed a criminal complaint against two executives at Aguas Danone
de Argentina and an executive at Euro RSCG Buenos Aires under the countrys
Unfair Trade Practices statute. The basis of this complaint is strong evidence
that these individuals orchestrated and executed a widely circulated, two-year
internet smear campaign -- that included the dissemination of false statements
-- against the Dasani® water brand. These malicious actions, which called
into question the quality of Dasani, have misled consumers and negatively impacted
the reputation and image of the brand and Coca-Cola de Argentina. Coca-Cola
has a single set of global quality standards and an uncompromising commitment
to product safety and quality everywhere its beverages are offered. Dasani is
absolutely safe and meets all quality standards and requirements established by
the Argentina government and the World Health Organization. The evidence presented
to the court clearly demonstrates this internet propaganda campaign was designed
to discredit the Dasani brand and hamper its entry into the market, and clearly
warrants the extraordinary step of filing a criminal complaint. As a responsible
member of Argentine society for 65 years, Coca-Cola de Argentina
is committed to a fair and transparent competitive environment where consumers
are able to make their purchasing decisions based on facts, not false information.
While the internet continues to provide a wealth of accurate and useful information,
its ability to instantaneously reach millions should not be abused or corrupted
to mislead consumers or unfairly damage companies or individuals. We have
complete faith in the Argentine legal system and look forward to a favorable decision. About
Coca-Cola de Argentina The Coca-Cola Company
is the world's largest beverage company. Along with Coca-Cola®,
recognized as the worlds most valuable brand, the company markets four of
the worlds top five nonalcoholic sparkling brands, including Coca-Cola
Light®, Sprite® and Fanta®, and a wide range of other beverages, including
diet and light beverages, waters, juices and juice drinks, teas, coffees, energy
and sports drinks. The Coca-Cola System started operating in Argentina
in 1942. It is comprised of Coca-Cola de Argentina (Servicios y Productos
para Bebidas Refrescantes S.R.L.) and six independent bottling partners. Together,
they serve more than 270,000 customers and generate 13,000 direct and indirect
jobs. For more information about Coca-Cola in Argentina, please visit
our website at www.coca-cola.com.ar. |