Diet Coke drinkers in several Indian cities are facing higher prices as some Coca-Cola bottlers and local retailers have increased the cost of a 330 ml can. The revised price has reportedly reached ₹70 in markets across Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Goa, compared with the earlier price of ₹50.
The increase has been linked to supply shortages and rising aluminium costs. The price of aluminium used to manufacture beverage cans has reportedly increased by 30% over the past year, putting additional pressure on production costs.
Despite the higher selling price at some outlets, cans manufactured at Coca-Cola facilities continue to carry a printed maximum retail price (MRP) of ₹50, leading to differences between the price on the packaging and the amount charged by certain retailers.
Why Has the Price of Diet Coke Increased?
An independent Coca-Cola bottler confirmed that a 330 ml Diet Coke can was being sold for ₹70, citing the rising cost of aluminium cans as a key reason for the increase.
The market has also faced shortages of aluminium cans. According to the report, supply disruptions earlier in the year, linked to conflicts in West Asia, pushed up can prices and affected the cost of producing the popular sugar-free beverage.
The price increase is not entirely new. Diet Coke prices were also raised in July, followed by the latest reported changes at some retail outlets.
Diet Coke Can Prices: From ₹40 to ₹70
Earlier this year, the company introduced a larger 330 ml Diet Coke can at ₹50, replacing the 300 ml can that was priced at ₹40.
The subsequent rise to ₹70 at some stores represents a ₹20 increase over the original price of the 330 ml can. However, the higher rate is not being applied uniformly across all sellers.
A Coca-Cola representative said the company advises its trade partners to follow the printed MRP in accordance with Indian regulations. The representative also noted that Diet Coke is available at different price points to meet varying consumer preferences and occasions.
Why Are Online and Offline Prices Different?
Consumers can reportedly still purchase a 330 ml Diet Coke can for ₹50 through quick-commerce platforms such as Blinkit and Zepto. In contrast, some physical retail stores and supermarkets have reportedly charged ₹70 for the same product.
The difference between online and offline prices has prompted discussions on social media platforms, including Instagram and X. Consumers have raised questions about why the amount charged varies when the can carries a printed MRP of ₹50.
With different prices being reported across sellers, buyers may want to check the listed price before placing an order or purchasing the beverage from a local store.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the information provided in the source material. Prices and availability may vary by retailer, city and sales platform. The reported price increase and its causes have not been independently verified here. Consumers should check the printed MRP and applicable retail pricing before purchasing the product.