Field Trip Report: Moha Soft Drink Factory, Addis Ababa
Introduction
On Thursday February 20th 2025, our class visited the Moha Soft Drink Factory in Addis
Ababa, a key producer of popular beverages including Pepsi, Miranda, and 7Up. This
educational trip provided an in-depth look into the operations of a beverage
manufacturing facility, showcasing both the production processes and the management
systems in place.
Production Systems
Moha operates two main production systems:
1. NE (for plastic bottles)
2. Returnable Glass Bottle System(for reusable glass bottles)
These systems are tailored to meet the demands of different packaging types and
sustainability practices.
Factory Layout: Filling and Packing Areas
The factory is categorized into two primary areas:
- Filling Area: This section is dedicated to the actual filling of beverages into bottles.
Here, we observed the various stages of production, including the preparation and filling
processes.
- Packing Area: After filling, the bottles are moved to the packing area, where they are
labeled, packaged, and prepared for distribution. This organization ensures efficiency
and quality control throughout the production cycle.
Plastic Bottle Production Process
During our tour, we focused on the production of plastic bottles, which involves several
critical steps:
1. Pre-form Creation: The process begins with the creation of pre-forms, which are
small, molded plastic components.
2. Blow Molding: The pre-forms are then heated and blown into full-sized bottles,
achieving the required dimensions.
3. Filling and Packaging: The newly formed bottles are filled with the soft drink, capped,
and packaged for shipment.
First In, First Out (FIFO) Concept
An important aspect of inventory management observed during our visit was the **First
In, First Out (FIFO) concept. This method ensures that the oldest stock is used first,
minimizing waste and ensuring product freshness. This practice is particularly crucial in
the beverage industry, where the shelf life of products can be a significant factor in
inventory control.
Workforce Hierarchy
Throughout the factory, we noted a clear hierarchy among the workers, which included:
- Senior Workers: Experienced electricians, engineers, and supervisors who oversee
operations and ensure safety standards.
- Junior Workers: Operators and assistants who handle day-to-day tasks on the
production line.
This structured division of labor facilitates effective communication and operational
efficiency within the factory.
Operational Management and Inventory Control
During our tour, we also learned about operational management practices at Moha. Key
points included:
- Inventory Control: The factory employs robust inventory management systems to track
raw materials and finished products, ensuring that production runs smoothly without
interruptions.
- Production Process Management: Effective monitoring of the production process
allows for quick identification of issues and optimization of workflows, contributing to
overall efficiency.
Ingredients Sourcing
We discovered that the sugar used in Moha's soft drinks comes from two sources:
- Imported Sugar: Primarily sourced from India.
- Local Sugar: Produced in Wengi, an industrial area in Ethiopia.
This approach not only supports local industry but also ensures high-quality ingredients
for the beverages.
The Mystery of PepsiCo Syrups
One intriguing aspect shared during our visit was the secrecy surrounding the syrup
formulations used in PepsiCo products. Moha operates under a franchise agreement,
which means that only a select few individuals within the PepsiCo family know the exact
recipes. Furthermore, a factory in Dublin, Ireland, is responsible for supplying these
syrups, adding an international dimension to their production process.
Conclusion
The field trip to Moha Soft Drink Factory was an enlightening experience that deepened
our understanding of the beverage manufacturing industry. We gained insights into the
production systems, learned about inventory management practices, and observed the
importance of hierarchy within the workforce. This visit not only reinforced theoretical
concepts from our studies but also provided practical knowledge about the operational
aspects of running a successful factory. Overall, the trip was both educational and
inspiring, highlighting the complexities of beverage production and the importance of
quality control and management in the industry.
Name: Yeab Mulugeta
Grade: Year 12C
Field trip Report: MOHA
Soft Drink Factory
To: Dr.
Kahisay
Due: Monday February
24 2025