Coca‑Cola lifts full‑year EPS outlook to ≥11% as global sales rise

Coca‑Cola announced on Tuesday that it has increased its full‑year earnings per share outlook to a minimum of 11% growth, up from its prior 9%‑10% range, according to reporting by CNBC. The company also nudged its organic‑revenue growth target to at least 5% for the year.

For the fiscal third quarter, net income attributable to shareholders rose to $4.01 billion, or 93 cents per share, compared with $3.7 billion and 86 cents a year earlier. Net sales climbed 7% to $13.4 billion, and organic revenue, which excludes acquisitions and currency effects, also grew 7%. Despite the upbeat numbers, the stock slipped less than 1% in morning trading.

North American volume was flat, a result the company linked to the timing of the Fourth of July holiday and a prolonged shortage of Topo Chico sparkling water. Outside the U.S., case volume rose 5% for the second straight quarter, offsetting the domestic slowdown. CFO John Murphy told CNBC the underlying momentum remains strong.

Murphy added that consumer behavior is expected to stay steady through 2027, with shoppers across income levels seeking value. While the at‑home segment in North America held up better, the away‑from‑home channel—including restaurants and entertainment venues—continues to face pressure, and Coke expects that trend to persist.

Globally, the sparkling soft‑drink portfolio posted a 5% volume gain, led by Coke, Coke Zero Sugar and a "resurgence" of Diet Coke, which is being embraced by younger consumers. The water, sports, coffee and tea division also logged a 5% increase, driven largely by premium water brands such as Smartwater. By contrast, the juice, dairy‑alternatives and plant‑based segment reported flat volume despite growth in Fairlife and Minute Maid.

Murphy noted that Coke has captured market share as rival PepsiCo’s soda business struggles, though brands like Sprite still require work.

Why it matters: The raised earnings outlook underscores Coca‑Cola’s ability to grow profit and revenue globally even as North American demand stalls, highlighting the company’s resilience and market‑share gains amid a challenging consumer environment.

Source: Coca-Cola hikes earnings outlook, even as it sees lackluster demand in North America — CNBC