Helped by strong worldwide sales of waters, teas and sodas, Coca-Cola saw its earnings rise 13 percent in the fourth quarter, the beverage giant said Tuesday.
Net income was $1.87 billion or 41 cents a share in the fourth quarter of 2012, up from $1.66 billion or 36 cents a share during the same period a year earlier. Revenue climbed to $11.46 billion in the fourth quarter of 2012.
Volume in North America, the Atlanta-based company’s biggest market, grew 1 percent in the fourth quarter and 2 percent for the year. Powerade, Seagram’s and Simply brands led the growth with 11 percent, 9 percent and 12 percent increases respectively.
Overall carbonated beverage volume in North America fell 2 percent for the quarter and 1 percent for the year, although Coca-Cola Zero and Fanta had mid-single to double-digit growth.
Worldwide volume for the year was up 4 percent, with Coca-Cola sales up 3 percent globally for the year. Volume in Europe, however, declined 5 percent in the quarter and 1 percent for the year.
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