Hard-To-Track News For Business Professionals

Hindustan Coca-Cola Profit Declines Sharply

Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Ltd reported a 73% drop in profit for FY2024–25, with revenue down 9%. The decline followed one-off gains from bottling divestments in FY2023–24 that boosted the previous year’s results. Lower exceptional income and reduced sales contributed to the drop. Coca-Cola recently sold a 40% stake in HCCBL to the Jubilant Bhartia Group, part of a broader refranchising strategy, a move that CEO James Quincey said will help unlock growth in India and Africa.

CCEP Faces Possible New Strikes In Germany

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners workers in Germany may stage more strikes amid a pay dispute led by the NGG union. Employees at seven facilities took industrial action after CCEP’s offer of a 1.5% wage increase for 2026, which the union called inadequate. NGG demands 5% and higher training allowances. Talks are scheduled for 10 November, but further action may occur sooner. CCEP said it provided €3,000 inflation bonuses between 2021 and 2023 and wage increases totaling €670 per month since 2023.

Study Highlights Coca-Cola’s Role In Portugal’s Economy

Coca-Cola generated €687 million in added value for the Portuguese economy in 2024, including, €60 million directly, representing 0.26% of national GDP, according to a Steward Redqueen study. Through its Azeitão factory and six offices, the company supports around 12,700 jobs, including 378 direct roles. Coca-Cola spent €144 million with local suppliers and emphasizes community engagement through campaigns such as “Share a Coke” and cultural initiatives like the decorated “Coca-Cola Boat.” The company also runs inclusion and sustainability projects, including BORA training programs and the Plantar Água reforestation initiative with WWF Portugal.

Coca-Cola’s Diet Drinks Help Drive Growth

Coca-Cola reported strong third-quarter 2025 results, lifted by demand for zero-sugar soft drinks and coffee sales. Net income rose 30% to $3.7 billion. Revenue increased 5% to $12.46 billion, with organic growth of 6%. Coca-Cola Zero Sugar volume grew 14%, while overall sparkling soft drink volume remained flat. Growth in water and sports drinks offset declines in juice and plant-based beverages. The company continues to see mixed consumer spending trends but remains optimistic about its diversified portfolio.

Danone Grows But Faces Risks In China

Danone’s Q3 like-for-like sales rose 4.8%, ahead of forecasts. Strong gains in China, North Asia and Oceania offset weaker North American results. Analysts noted China’s growth, with margins double the group average, but warned of reliance on infant formula sales amid declining birth rates.
Europe’s LFL sales grew 2.6% with volume/mix up 2.1%. Latam LFL growth was 4.3% on -2.3% volume/mix. Asia, Middle East and Africa posted 6.8% LFL growth on a 2.6% gain in volume/mix.
Waters reported 2.3% LFL growth, with volume/mix 1.3%. CEO Antoine de Saint-Affrique said Danone remains focused on consistent, health-driven growth while continuing its transformation efforts. The company maintained full-year guidance for 3–5% organic sales growth.

Danone Clarifies Aqua Water Source In Indonesia

Danone Indonesia stated that its Aqua bottled water comes from deep mountain aquifers, not ordinary boreholes, following public concern after a viral video of a governor’s factory visit. The company said its 19 natural spring sources, located 60–140 meters underground, are naturally protected from contamination. Studies by experts from Gadjah Mada and Padjadjaran universities confirmed the water sources do not affect public supply.

Ghost Acquisition Boosts KDP Growth

Keurig Dr Pepper saw a 10% rise in Q3 revenue driven by strong performance from the Ghost energy and sports drink brand acquired in 2024. Net income grew 7% to $662 million. US Refreshment Beverage sales climbed 14%, with Ghost contributing more than 7% to volume gains. KDP announced a $7 billion investment partnership with Apollo and KKR to fund its acquisition of JDE Peet’s and future restructuring into separate coffee and beverage companies.

iPRO Launches Protein Water For Recovery

UK hydration brand iPRO’s Protein Water is sugar-free with 20g of collagen protein per 500ml bottle. Available in Peach & Ginger and Summer Fruits flavors, the beverage supports muscle recovery, skin, hair and joint health. It is fortified with B vitamins for energy and immune function and naturally sweetened with stevia. It will launch in gyms and fitness venues across the UK, promoting performance and everyday wellness through convenient hydration.

CocoGen Brings Functional Coconut Water To Australia

CocoGen, a new functional coconut water brand in Australia launched with products designed for hydration, recovery and wellness. Made from organic Vietnamese coconuts, CocoGen contains 25% more electrolytes than standard coconut waters and comes in three versions: Electrolytes, Magnesium and Collagen. The range includes ingredients that support muscle recovery, mood and skin health. Free from artificial additives and packaged in distinctive metallic silver cans, they are available online and at select retailers in Sydney and Melbourne, with a wider rollout planned.

Autofocus Offers Functional Energy Alternative

Productive Health Co. introduces Autofocus, a new energy drink designed to improve mental clarity and focus without artificial additives. Made from upcycled coffee fruit, L-theanine, black currant, stevia and water, the drink provides clean caffeine and antioxidants with no crash or jitters. It is vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO. Founder Trisha Ashworth said the concept was inspired by a natural beverage discovered during a yoga trip to Bali. Autofocus is available in formats including a sparkling drink, a concentrated shot and a powdered version set for release in 2026.

Shesha, South Africa’s Sugarcane Energy Drink

A new energy drink, Shesha, made from raw sugarcane juice, launched in South Africa, aiming to boost local agriculture and offer a natural alternative in the energy drink market. Produced by Womoba, part of SA Canegrowers, Shesha is made and canned in KwaZulu-Natal and available in four flavors: Original, Lemon & Lime, Orange and Ginger Beer. The drink contains half the caffeine of typical energy drinks and supports rural economies through reinvested profits. SA Canegrowers, representing over 25,000 growers, developed Shesha to diversify beyond sugar production and create sustainable revenue for local communities.

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