It was no casual get-together. The event included a social reception, team-building exercises, recreational activities, and the chance to hear from speakers — among them Jennifer Mann, President of Coca-Cola North America Operating Unit, and corporate executives from other companies who discussed their career paths. Around 250 female employees attended.
The EEOC alleges that female attendees were excused from their normal work duties on both days and paid their normal salary or wages without having to use vacation or other paid time off. The company also allegedly covered hotel room charges and taxes for female employees who stayed at the Mohegan Sun on September 10, 2024, and provided other benefits including food and/or beverages.
Male employees, the agency contends, were not offered or provided any of these benefits.
The case stems from a charge filed by a male production employee working at the company’s facility in Londonderry, New Hampshire. According to the filing, he and other male employees would have attended the event had they been invited. The EEOC alleges that by excluding them, the company deprived male employees of equal employment opportunities and adversely affected their status as employees on the basis of sex.
Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast produces, sells, and distributes Coca-Cola brand beverages in seven states within the Northeast United States.