Coca-Cola books 4Q profit thanks to strong China sales

Coca-Cola announced Tuesday that its net profit increased 55% year-on-year US$1.54 billion in the fourth quarter of 2009 on the back of strong sales in emerging markets, notably China, AFP reported. While unit sales volume in North America slipped 1% “primarily due to continued macroeconomic pressure impacting consumer spending and food service traffic,” volumes in China rose by 29%. India posted sales growth of 20% and Brazil 8%. Globally, unit sales volume increased 6% in the quarter. Coca-Cola’s full-year worldwide profit came to US$6.82 billion, up 18% year-on-year, while full-year revenue was down 3% to US$30.99 billion.