Celebrating Four Decades of Collaboration, Innovation, and Community Impact
America Recycles Day, celebrated annually on November 15, serves as a national reminder of the importance of recycling and its role in protecting our environment. This year, the longstanding partnership between Coca-Cola Consolidated and Southeastern Container (SEC) takes center stage, highlighting their shared commitment to sustainability and circularity in packaging. For over forty years, these two organizations have worked hand-in-hand to advance recycling initiatives, drive innovation, and create positive change in communities across the United States.
Coca-Cola Consolidated, the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States, and Southeastern Container, a Coca-Cola system Cooperative, have built a robust supply chain that spans multiple states. SEC plays a critical role as a trusted supplier of PET preforms, bottles, and HDPE pallets, ensuring that Coca-Cola Consolidated’s products reach consumers efficiently and sustainably. Their collaboration extends across a broad geographic footprint, supporting bottling operations from the Carolinas to the Midwest and beyond. This partnership exemplifies the power of cooperative business models to drive efficiency and innovation in the beverage industry.
Among the many joint sustainability initiatives spearheaded by Coca-Cola Consolidated and SEC, the HDPE Pallet Buy Back Program stands out as a model for circular recycling processes. This program enables used HDPE pallets to be collected, recycled, and re-manufactured into new pallets, creating a closed-loop system that minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency. The success of this initiative earned a nomination for a Carolina Recycling Association Award, underscoring its impact and leadership within the recycling community.
Innovation is at the heart of this partnership, as demonstrated by the development of a cutting-edge Flake-to-Pellet recycling line. This technology transforms recycled PET flakes into food-grade PET pellets, which can then be used to produce new bottles. By closing the loop on PET packaging, Coca-Cola Consolidated and SEC are helping to reduce dependence on virgin plastic and promote a truly circular economy for beverage containers.
The collaboration between Coca-Cola Consolidated and SEC is built on a shared mission to protect the environment and support their communities. This was especially evident during Hurricane Helene, when Coca-Cola Consolidated provided critical support to SEC, ensuring continuity of operations and supply amidst challenging circumstances. Such moments showcase the strength of their partnership and the depth of their commitment to each other and the communities they serve.
Beyond operational excellence and recycling innovation, Coca-Cola Consolidated and SEC are dedicated to making a meaningful difference at the local level. Together, they host educational workshops and recycling events, empowering individuals and organizations to embrace sustainability. By promoting circularity and responsible recycling practices, they inspire communities to take action and contribute to a healthier planet. These joint efforts not only raise awareness but also foster a culture of stewardship and environmental responsibility that extends far beyond America Recycles Day.
The partnership between Coca-Cola Consolidated and Southeastern Container stands as a beacon of sustainability and collaboration in the beverage industry. Their four-decade journey showcases how cooperative efforts can drive innovation, create circular systems, and generate lasting community impact. As we celebrate America Recycles Day, their story serves as an inspiration for businesses, advocates, and individuals alike—demonstrating that through partnership and purpose, we can build a more sustainable future for all.
