The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday edition that Coca-Cola raised its annual profit forecast on Tuesday, citing strong soft drink demand in India and Brazil, but warned of rising cost pressures and ongoing consumer weakness through 2027.
A Reuters dispatch to The Globe reports that it is targeting selective consumers in the United States with smaller, cheaper packs while also introducing pricier options like Coca-Cola Cherry Float.
But like other consumer goods companies, Coca-Cola faces higher packaging and freight costs as the U.S. war in Iran drives up commodity prices. It said in July that aluminum and PET costs had risen more than expected this year.
Diesel prices have jumped to record highs because of the war, pushing up freight and transport costs across industries. Consumer goods bellwether P&G last week raised its estimate of the hit from higher costs to its annual profit.
Coca-Cola also warned that pressure on consumers could extend into 2027. Chief financial officer John Murphy pointed to weakness in the restaurant industry, which was a slight drag on North American volumes.
Revenue for the quarter ended Oct. 2 reached $13.38-billion (U.S.), beating analysts' estimate of $12.92-billion (U.S.).
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