Coca-Cola Co. reported solid growth for 2012, led by strong demand in emerging markets and stable growth in developed countries despite an uncertain global economy.
Globally, volumes grew by 4 percent, with North America and Japan each posting a 2 percent uptick, the Atlanta-based beverage giant announced Feb. 12. Europe was down 1 percent as its economy sputtered.
China, a huge market for Coke and a bellwether for the company’s global performance, was a downer. Sales volumes there increased by only 4 percent, compared to the double-digit growth seen in 2011. The company blamed a slower economy overall, poor weather and a later Chinese New Year.
Other key developing markets showed stronger increases, including Thailand (22 percent), India (16 percent) and Russia (8 percent).
Two brands in Japan eclipsed $1 billion in lifetime sales during 2012, including I LOHAS water and Ayataka green tea.
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