In the U.S., the rise of weight loss drugs and non-alcoholic beverages has led to a decrease in soda purchases among consumers.
Amidst this changing landscape, McDonald’s is now facing its first lawsuit linked to an E. coli outbreak associated with its Quarter Pounder.
Despite these challenges, Coca-Cola reported strong second-quarter earnings, bolstered by significant global demand for its beverages, which prompted the company to raise its full-year forecasts.
Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey expressed optimism in a statement, highlighting, “We are encouraged with our second-quarter results, which delivered solid topline and operating income growth in an ever-changing landscape.”
However, the company did see a 1% decline in volume sales in North America during the quarter. Quincey attributed this drop to decreased consumer engagement in away-from-home channels, which encompass its water, sports drinks, coffee, tea, and soda products.
This decline was partially counterbalanced by success in its Fairlife milk line and the traditional Coca-Cola drink, which ranked highly in retail sales growth for the period.
To combat the downward trend, Coca-Cola is collaborating with food chains to feature its soda in combo meal deals. The beverage company is said to be partnering with McDonald’s to enhance the fast-food chain’s $5 meal option, which includes a soft drink.
Overall, Coca-Cola exceeded Wall Street expectations, reporting $12.4 billion in revenue, or $0.84 per share, surpassing the forecasted $11.76 billion, approximately $0.81 per share.
The company has now adjusted its forecast for organic revenue growth to between 9% and 10%, an increase from its previous estimate of 8% to 9%.
Pepsi is also feeling the pressure as U.S. consumers increasingly gravitate towards products that focus on weight loss and healthier choices. In early July, the company cited a series of recalls as contributing factors to its lackluster performance in the second quarter.