PepsiCo executive reaffirms long-term commitment to Vietnam with new investment

On the occasion of Suntory PepsiCo Vietnam putting its sixth factory into operation, Willemsen said Vietnam remains one of PepsiCo's most dynamic and strategic markets.

He added that Vietnam's dynamic economy, young population, and strong growth aspirations make it an attractive market for not only PepsiCo but also businesses across many industries.

He said the opening of the new factory marked another milestone in the development of PepsiCo and the Suntory PepsiCo joint venture in Vietnam, demonstrating the company's long-term commitment to the country.

The facility represents a major investment in a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant featuring full automation and advanced technologies.

Willemsen said Tay Ninh Province was selected as the location because of its proximity to Ho Chi Minh City and its significant development potential.

Beyond being a large-scale investment, the factory is expected to create employment opportunities for not only its direct workforce but also the surrounding business ecosystem, particularly local suppliers.

He noted that local companies supply raw materials and packaging materials to the factory, while other businesses provide maintenance and technical support services.

Some suppliers have established new operations near the facility to support its production, while others were already operating in the area.

Willemsen said the new factory aligns with Vietnam's goal of attracting high-quality foreign direct investment in several ways.

First, he said the factory is equipped with advanced technologies that require a workforce with more specialized skills, creating opportunities to upgrade the capabilities of Vietnamese workers.

Second, he highlighted the factory's strong environmental performance, saying it was designed to operate with high levels of sustainability through reduced energy consumption and efficient water use.

Supporting Vietnam's young workforce

He said Suntory PepsiCo Vietnam currently employs thousands of people and works closely with universities, including Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, to strengthen links between academia and industry.

Through these partnerships, students gain practical workplace experience and develop skills that will benefit them throughout their careers, regardless of whether they eventually join Suntory PepsiCo or another company.

Willemsen also said the company closely follows changing consumer preferences among younger generations, particularly Generation Z and Generation Alpha.

He noted that these generations are driving demand for more diverse beverage choices, a trend seen not only in Vietnam but worldwide.

He said this presents opportunities for Suntory PepsiCo to continue expanding its product portfolio, including low-sugar and sugar-free beverages, in response to consumers' growing focus on health and wellness.

Regarding artificial intelligence (AI), Willemsen said AI should be viewed as a companion rather than a replacement for workers. 

He noted that AI can improve business and sales performance by providing real-time information, analyzing data from multiple sources, supporting sales teams more effectively, and improving retail execution.

AI enhances employees' capabilities and enables them to work more efficiently than before the widespread use of digital tools, according to Willemsen.