Coca-Cola's growth rates to increase this year, says research fir

A market research firm predicts that Atlanta-based Coca-Cola's global sales volume will accelerate this year. Coca-Cola's volume will grow 4 percent in the first quarter, and then jump by as much as 6 percent in the second and third quarters of this year, according to Connecticut-based Consumer Edge Research. That would be a dramatic speed-up from growth rates posted in several quarters last year.

Consumer Edge Research predicted that Coca-Cola will not raise prices aggressively this year, in response to consumers who are "just beginning to emerge from the recession." Meanwhile, investors will be watching for any signs of disruption in Coca-Cola's takeover of bottling operations in North America -- a transaction expected to close later this year. "Our forecasts assume minimal disruption," Consumer Edge Research said.

Get the news faster! Follow us on Twitter here. And catch our offbeat musings on Facebook here.

About the Author

Jeremiah Mcwilliams

Live airport security wait times and today’s trends

The AJC gathers real-time wait-time data from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to show what security lines look like right now.

Microsoft’s newest AI ‘superfactory’ opens at sprawling Fayetteville campus

One of the largest data center campuses under construction in Georgia has its first operational tenant, and it’s one of the most recognizable names in technology.

In the market for a luxury vehicle? You might reconsider Lincoln.

The definition of “luxury” has shifted. It’s no longer just a softer ride with more chrome and gadgets; the real battle now is over experience. Lincoln is leaning in.

The Latest