Coca-Cola Consolidated Reports First Quarter 2025 Results

Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc., the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States, has released its financial results for the first quarter of 2025. The company reported a slight decline in net sales and gross profit compared to the same period in 2024, which had two additional selling days. Despite the challenges, the company remains optimistic about its performance for the rest of the year.

Financial Highlights

For the first quarter of 2025, Coca-Cola Consolidated reported the following key financial metrics:

• Net sales decreased by 1% to $1.58 billion.
• Gross profit was $627 million, a decrease of 2% from the previous year.
• Gross margin decreased by 50 basis points to 39.7%.
• Income from operations was $190 million, down 12% from the first quarter of 2024.
• Net income was $104 million, compared to $166 million in the first quarter of 2024.

Business and Operational Highlights

The company experienced a 6.6% decline in volume, partly due to two fewer selling days and the timing of the Easter holiday. Adjusted for these factors, the volume decline was 4.5%. Sparkling and Still beverage sales saw declines of 1.9% and 0.5%, respectively. However, excluding Dasani, Still beverage sales increased by 1.8%, driven by growth in sports drinks, protein, and enhanced water products.

Strategic Initiatives and Corporate Developments

During the first quarter, Coca-Cola Consolidated invested approximately $98 million in capital expenditures to optimize its supply chain and support future growth. The company expects total capital expenditures for fiscal year 2025 to be around $300 million.

Management's Perspective

J. Frank Harrison, III, Chairman and CEO, acknowledged the lower profit but highlighted the successful execution of the 2025 commercial plan and strong operating cash flow. He expressed optimism for improved results over the remainder of the year. Dave Katz, President and COO, noted the impact of calendar changes on reported sales growth but remained positive about the performance of most Sparkling and Still brands.

Future Outlook

The company is optimistic about the rebound of Coca-Cola Original Taste sales as the summer selling season approaches. Additionally, the momentum of Still brands, including Topo Chico mineral water, is expected to continue. The company also anticipates capital expenditures of approximately $300 million for the fiscal year 2025.

SEC Filing: Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. [ COKE ] - 8-K - Apr. 30, 2025