The Cola-Cola Company Names Alex Cummings President of the Africa Group; First African to Lead the Africa Group

ATLANTA, GA March 7, 2001 -- The Coca-Cola Company today announced that Alexander B. Cummings, Jr., has been appointed President, Africa Group. He will oversee the current Southern & East African Division and the West & North African Division. Cummings succeeds Don Short, who was recently named chief executive officer of the new juices, juice-based beverages and snacks enterprise formed by The Coca-Cola Company and Procter and Gamble.

Doug Daft, chairman and chief executive officer, The Coca-Cola Company said "Alex Cumming's appointment recognizes the strong contributions he has made to our business since he joined the Company in 1997. He is the first African to lead our Africa operating unit which is consistent with our localization strategy."

During his tenure as President for West & North Africa, Cummings has provided leadership and vision to management in 29 countries, driving innovation and profitability.

Daft said: "Alex has a deep understanding of The Coca-Cola Company's commitment to local markets, where knowledge of and sensitivity to the specific needs of cultures and community are vitally important to providing the people we serve with the products they want. As a native of Africa, he brings us unique perspectives and insights; as an outstanding and accomplished business leader, he knows how to translate that unique knowledge into outstanding results, which is just what our strategy is all about. I am confident that he will bring the same successful local approach to his new position as head of the Africa group that he has shown during his tenure to date with the Company."

Cummings, 44, is originally from Liberia. He was named to his current position of Division President for West & North Africa in June 2000, and previously served as region manager for Nigeria. Prior to joining the Company, he spent 15 years with the Pillsbury Co., and was vice president of Finance for Pillsbury International.

Charles S. Frenette, Executive Vice President, Europe and Africa, said, "Alex Cummings is uniquely qualified to lead The Coca-Cola Company's business in Africa. We will benefit greatly from having a skilled and accomplished leader of his caliber on the senior management team of The Coca-Cola Company.

He has a depth of experience, a record of achievement, and an understanding of doing business in Africa that have prepared him well to serve the Company in this critical role."

Cummings received a bachelor's degree in finance from Northern Illinois University and a master's degree in finance from Atlanta University.

The Corporate Council on Africa 1100 17th Street, N.W., Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20036 Tel: (202) 835-1115 Fax: (202) 835-1117 E-mail: