Founded by the late Sheikh Toufic Assaf and his brothers Yousef, Salim and Anis Assaf in 1952, SMLC enjoys the unique distinction of being the first Pepsi franchisee and bottler to operate in the Levant.

Commenting on the 50th anniversary celebration, Mr. Walid Toufic Assaf, Chairman of SMLC, said: “Having been founded 50 years ago, SMLC has witnessed much of Lebanon's modern history throughout its golden era and its war years. This Golden Jubilee is a memorable occasion that holds a lot of cherished memories and growing commitment to providing our consumers in Lebanon with their favorite Pepsi products” .

However, Mr. Assaf explained that the past 50 years also witnessed major challenges. During Lebanon's war years, SMLC stood firm, especially throughout the 1982 invasion and the subsequent destruction of its bottling plants.
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Despite the challenges, SMLC succeeded in building a strong reputation in the market by providing countless job opportunities throughout the years and assisting in the development of the Lebanese industrial sector and national economy.

Similarly, SMLC's commitment in supporting the advancement of the Lebanese community only grew stronger. The company's profile as a corporate citizen with social conscience was translated throughout the past 50 years into continued and relentless contribution to the quality of life in the local community and support of social development agencies.

SMLC's Golden Jubilee is a clear demonstration of the will of a national company to succeed and lead in its industry. "We are looking forward for another Golden Era for Lebanon and hoping for 50 more years of industrial commitment," Mr. Assaf concluded.