Coke to Examine Overseas Labor Practices

The Coca-Cola Co. says it is willing to examine its labor and business practices in India and Colombia to keep $1.3 million worth of contracts with the University of Michigan.
The university decided Friday that it would renew contracts with the world's biggest beverage company only on a conditional basis until the company performs an independent audit and puts a corrective plan in place, said Frank Stafford, chairman of the school's Vendor Code of Conduct Dispute Review Board.
Atlanta-based Coca-Cola has for years faced questions about its labor practices abroad, and college students have levied some of the most vocal complaints. The company has repeatedly denied allegations of environmental and human rights abuses, but officials said they would look into the matter.