Buenos Aires, July 12, 2007 - Coca-Cola de Argentina filed a criminal complaint against two executives at Aguas Danone de Argentina and an executive at Euro RSCG Buenos Aires under the country's Unfair Trade Practices statute.
The basis of this complaint is strong evidence that these individuals orchestrated and executed a widely circulated, two-year internet smear campaign -- that included the dissemination of false statements -- against the Dasani® water brand. These malicious actions, which called into question the quality of Dasani, have misled consumers and negatively impacted the reputation and image of the brand and Coca-Cola de Argentina.
Coca-Cola has a single set of global quality standards and an uncompromising commitment to product safety and quality everywhere its beverages are offered. Dasani is absolutely safe and meets all quality standards and requirements established by the Argentina government and the World Health Organization. The evidence presented to the court clearly demonstrates this internet propaganda campaign was designed to discredit the Dasani brand and hamper its entry into the market, and clearly warrants the extraordinary step of filing a criminal complaint.
As a responsible member of Argentine society for 65 years, Coca-Cola de Argentina is committed to a fair and transparent competitive environment where consumers are able to make their purchasing decisions based on facts, not false information. While the internet continues to provide a wealth of accurate and useful information, its ability to instantaneously reach millions should not be abused or corrupted to mislead consumers or unfairly damage companies or individuals.
We have complete faith in the Argentine legal system and look forward to a favorable decision.