10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2006

COCA COLA CO Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 29, 2006

Filed October 26, 2006For Securities:KO

Summary

The Coca-Cola Company reported solid financial results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 29, 2006. Net income saw a healthy increase, driven by strong net operating revenue growth primarily attributed to positive price and product/geographic mix, as well as favorable currency fluctuations. The company also demonstrated operational improvements, with a notable increase in gross profit margin and effective management of selling, general, and administrative expenses, despite increased marketing investments. Strategic acquisitions and investments in bottling operations, particularly in China and Germany, are expected to fuel future growth and market presence. While facing some challenges like declining unit case volume in the Philippines and higher raw material costs, Coca-Cola maintained robust cash flow from operations and continued its commitment to returning value to shareholders through share repurchases and dividend increases. The company's outlook remains positive, with continued focus on innovation, strategic market initiatives, and efficient operations across its global network.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net income increased to $1.46 billion ($0.62 per share) for Q3 2006 and $4.40 billion ($1.87 per share) for the first nine months of 2006, up from $1.28 billion ($0.54 per share) and $4.01 billion ($1.67 per share) respectively in the prior year.
  • 2Net operating revenues grew by 7% to $6.45 billion in Q3 2006 and by 3% to $18.16 billion for the first nine months, driven by price/mix, currency tailwinds, and volume growth.
  • 3Gross profit margin improved to 64.9% in Q3 2006 and 66.4% for the nine months, up from 63.0% and 64.7% in the prior year periods, respectively.
  • 4The company made significant acquisitions in Q3 2006, including a controlling stake in Kerry Beverages Limited (now Coca-Cola China Industries Limited) and Apollinaris GmbH, along with consolidating Brucephil, Inc.
  • 5Strategic focus on restructuring and rationalizing production, though resulting in some 'other operating charges,' aims for long-term efficiency.
  • 6Cash flow from operations remained strong, providing resources for investing activities such as acquisitions and property, plant, and equipment, as well as financing activities like share repurchases and dividend payments.
  • 7Share repurchases continued, with plans for up to 300 million shares under a new program commencing November 2006, signaling confidence in future performance and commitment to shareholder returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

For the third quarter of 2006, The Coca-Cola Company reported net operating revenues of $6.45 billion, an increase of 7% compared to the prior year, and net income of $1.46 billion, or $0.62 per diluted share. For the nine-month period, net operating revenues were $18.16 billion (up 3% year-over-year) and net income was $4.40 billion, or $1.87 per diluted share.

Revenue growth was primarily driven by a favorable price and product/geographic mix (up 4% in Q3), an increase in gallon sales (up 4% in Q3), and positive impacts from currency fluctuations (up 1% in Q3 due to a stronger euro). Structural changes, particularly the business model shift in Spain, had a negative impact on reported revenues but did not materially affect gross profit.

Gross profit margin improved to 64.9% in Q3 2006 from 63.0% in Q3 2005, reflecting price increases and the structural shift in Spain. Selling, general, and administrative expenses increased due to investments in marketing and acquisitions, but overall operating income grew by 11% to $1.66 billion in Q3 2006. The company also recorded 'other operating charges' related to impairments and restructuring efforts.

In the third quarter of 2006, Coca-Cola acquired a controlling stake in Kerry Beverages Limited (now Coca-Cola China Industries Limited) and Apollinaris GmbH, a German mineral water company. The company also consolidated the operations of The Philadelphia Coca-Cola Bottling Company. These moves indicate a strategic focus on expanding its beverage portfolio and consolidating bottling operations.