Coca-Cola investing $5 billion in India

The beverage distributor has added $3 billion to its investment in the country.

By Benzinga Jun 27, 2012 9:29AM
Image: India (© Donald Edwards/age fotostock)By Katey Stapleton

The Coca-Cola Company (KO) plans to invest $3 billion in India through 2020, adding to the $2 billion it has already committed.


Coca-Cola, which claims it is already India's primary beverage company, is aiming to expand even further in a market that is now requiring bubbly instant gratification. The new investment will fund growth in its extensive line-up of beverages such as Thums Up and Minute Maid Nimbu Fresh.


Of Coca-Cola's most recent 23 quarters, 17 have registered double-digit growth in India's case volume -- progress indicating tremendous potential for future expansion. With no signs of slowing, the beverage distributor's $5 billion venture is expected to only strengthen Coca-Cola's current position in the country.


"Achieving continued sustainable, responsible growth in India is core to achieving our 2020 Vision of doubling system revenues in this decade," said Muhtar Kent, Chairman and CEO, The Coca-Cola Company. "Our ongoing investment in India is focused on delivering innovation, partnerships and a portfolio that enhances the consumer experience, ensures product affordability and builds brand loyalty to deliver long-term growth."


Recently, Coca-Cola has been on a mission to prove just how unstoppable it truly is. In dismal economic times overseas, European shoppers still consumed enough carbonated beverages to afford the company increased sales of 4.4%, which beat PepsiCo's (PEP) 2.4% throughout the month of May.


However, Pepsi cannot be discounted just yet. Morgan Stanley reiterated its "overweight" rating on the company last week, following a solid investor presentation that left analysts abuzz with a win-win situation.


Over the next few quarters, Pepsi is expected to either endure increased marketing pay-offs and stock outperformance, or continued fundamental tussles that could lead to managerial restructuring, likely unlocking shareholder value.


The competing company's tribulations are paid no mind by Coca-Cola, as the red and white brand continues to expand and bring in outstanding numbers quarter after quarter. With its new investment in India and positive sales in struggling Europe, The Coca-Cola Company plans to keep consumers thirsts quenched in the number one spot worldwide.


Coca-Cola shares closed up 0.41% Tuesday at $75.08, while Pepsi shares closed up 0.48% at $68.94.


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