Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, praises long serving staff for their contribution to many successful years of operation.

CBC salutes team members for their years of dedication to the company. As the leading beverage manufacturer and distributor in The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, CBC recognizes the invaluable part its loyal staff plays in its overall success.

CBC celebrates people who have served 10+ years, with some members celebrating over 50 years with the organization. Through much and exciting evolution, team members worked diligently to provide Bahamians and Turks and Caicos Islanders their favorite beverages.

This is what the newest inductees of Caribbean Bottling Company’s long serving staff hall of fame shared about their experiences at the company.

Karla Wells-Lisgaris, Commercial Officer – New Providence Office; serving 10 years joked that her decade at the company has been a maze, but a rewarding one filled with evolution.

“My position has evolved from strictly marketing, to working alongside our sales and human resources departments, and spearheading product launches and innovation. I have grown professionally as an individual and have also expanded my knowledge on technical matters. Topics I probably otherwise would not have delved into.” she shared.

Randy Scott, PET Filler Operator – New Providence Office; serving 15 years revealed that he got his start at CBC after Pepsi closed.
“At the time, when I applied, I wondered how it would be received, but I’m so glad that they didn’t view me as the enemy and gave me the opportunity to use my skillsets at Coca-Cola.” he expressed.

Whitney Fernander, Quality Management Systems Manager – New Providence Office; serving 10 years, said her time at CBC has been filled with significant personal and professional growth.
“I started my career working in the Quality Control Lab, where we are responsible for ensuring all products meet quality standards. Within a year, I received a promotion to Senior Lab Technician and soon after, Quality Control Supervisor. I now work as the Quality Management Systems Manager, responsible for ensuring compliance with company and industry requirements.” she said.

Blaine Bullard, Accounts Clerk/Route Setter - Grand Bahama Office; serving 10 years said her time at CBC consisted of meaningful and fulfilling work
“I started my tenure as a receptionist/customer service rep. and during this time I have acquired the knowledge of various positions...I have learned the importance of teamwork. Being able to work well with others has strengthen my ability to reach the common goal of the company.” she remarked.
In its nearly 90 years of existence, it is easy to imagine all the many ways CBC has evolved. Team members still recall pivotal moments in the company’s evolution that impacted them the most.
“With the addition of more advanced and efficient equipment within the manufacturing area, we have been able to increase our beverage portfolio. Most notably by adding more non-sugar and flavored water options and operating on a different level by increasing our internationally recognized certifications.” Fernander said.

“When we first moved to the new plant production was smaller, with a single machine to operate. Today we have four machines with three people operating each. That is how much we’ve grown in production alone.” Scott revealed.

“We now boast upwards of 265 employees. We have launched our sister company Caribbean Wines and Spirits, and in 2015 we started our own scholarship program, the Carleton Williams High School Scholarship.” Wells-Lisgaris proudly shared.

As CBC strives to always provide the best quality while remaining on the precipice of innovation staff shared what they look forward to in the future.

“I am excited in which direction the company decides to grow, specifically top-notch customer service and product development. I also look forward to opportunities to gain new knowledge, skills and a continued positive and supportive work environment.” Bullard shared.

“Seeing the company continue to expand, maybe branching out more internationally. I would love to see Goombay Punch make its way around the world.” Fernander boasted.

It is easy to be hopeful about the future when you are immersed in a company culture that promotes creativity, efficiency and teamwork. Wells-Lisgaris and Scott spoke about what they appreciate the most about CBC.

“I enjoy the journey. Working here feels like a mountain, sometimes it's smooth, other times it's rocky, but when you reach the top, it is a great feeling. And you constantly repeat that process with each new task.” Scott expressed.

“In my position I have thoroughly enjoyed being able to play an instrumental role in giving back. At its core, CBC believes in supporting the communities in which it operates, whether that be Nassau, the wider Bahamas, or the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through our outreach we have touched countless lives, making the job even more rewarding. “ Wells-Lisgaris remarked.

Caribbean Bottling Company is grateful for its over 250 staff members and is filled with optimism for all that they will achieve in years to come.