Coca-Cola is a company with one of the widest distribution channels, reaching even remote villages worldwide. What if Coca Cola used these channels to distribute necessary and meaningful products such as oral rehydration salts, simple medicines, vitamin tablets, water-purification tablets, condoms, or even band-aids? This was the idea that Simon Berry had while working on the British Aid programme, way back in 1988. 

Although Simon had the idea for more than 20 years, he wasn't able to find a way to convince Coke to implement it. He decided to use the power of the Internet to convey his idea, Colalife to as many people as possible. Today technology is helping the idea stand on its feet, after a dormancy of twenty years. Many people have contributed their ideas, time and knowledge. Now Coca Cola is more engaged, and ready to listen to more of it. Early trials are happening in Tanzania. 

The AidPod, is the package that goes into the crate of Coca-Cola bottles. It is designed to fit in exactly in the spaces between the necks of the bottles. One crate can hold five AidPods. The contents of the AidPods can be decided locally, depending on the needs of the area. In the future, they may even hold vaccines. An organisation has recently been set up to implement this idea, and they are at the stage of getting some designers to design the AidPod according to various needs. The design of the processes is also important, and has to match the ethos of Coca Cola, which is primarily driven by finance. In the words of Simon, "People should make money out of distributing these AidPods." Or it won't be able to sustain itself long-term. The design of the AidPods, and the design of the system, are two big challenges faced by Colalife. Once they are resolved, they require funds to manufacture thousands of AidPods to supply to Coca Cola. 

The idea is beautifully simple, and uses an existing distribution channel for maximum benefit. This system can be easily replicated in any part of the world. Colalife is a vountary campaign, and you can read more of their aims and objectives here. The products in the AidPod could be sold, given by the local health worker, or clinic. Colalife is looking for funding and help to make this system as viable as possible for Coca Cola to pursue. Do see the videos, (more on the site) and read Simon's blog here. 

Coca Cola. Open more than just happiness. 

By Armeen Kapadia
 


Comments

Shivani

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:37:08

no extra transportation cost... nice!

although.. i don't really trust companies like coca cola to do something philanthropic.. hehhe

 

armeen kapadia

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:47:59

Yes that was my first reaction too Shivani. But they might agree to do this, if it does not cost them anything, and if there is enough public pressure.

 



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