Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO) reported fourth-quarter revenue growth that came in below expectations, as the beverage giant said it was positioning the business for long-term success ahead of incoming CEO Henrique Braun’s tenure later this year.
Braun is set to take over leadership of the company, which includes brands such as Coca-Cola and Fairlife, at a time when the business has been adjusting package sizes to appeal to both price-sensitive consumers and health-conscious buyers.
The company continued to navigate persistent inflationary pressures affecting household spending, alongside shifting consumer preferences toward healthier options, a trend amplified by the popularity of weight-loss medications and the Make America Healthy Again movement under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. Coca-Cola also faced intensifying international competition, particularly as soda demand weakened in parts of Asia.
Still, outgoing CEO James Quincey said in a statement that he was encouraged by the company’s “resilience and momentum” throughout 2025.
Fourth-quarter unit case volumes rose 1%, matching the prior quarter and outperforming consensus expectations for a 0.66% decline. Price and mix increased 1%, well below analyst expectations of 4.62%.
Net revenue for the quarter totaled $11.8 billion, compared with projections of $12.03 billion. Comparable earnings per share edged up to $0.58.
