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Coca Cola (NYSE: KO) is introducing its first permanent soda flavor in three years later this month with Coca-Cola Spiced. The company said Coca-Cola Spiced offers a “unique alchemy” between its iconic cola, raspberry and spicy flavors. A sugar-free version of Coca-Cola Spiced will also be sold.
The Spiced strategy was chosen because it was considered by Coca-Cola to be in line with the trend of the category and responsive to consumer preferences. Research conducted by the drinks giant indicated a strong level of interest in trying a spiced drink. “Growth in flavored soda sales has generally outpaced that of cola for years, which is aided by a growing multicultural population,” noted Duane Stanford, editor of Beverage Digest.
Looking ahead, Coca-Cola (KO) is set to report earnings on February 13th. Analysts expect revenues of $10.65 billion and EPS of $0.49. Coca-Cola (KO) has exceeded earnings per share expectations in 16 consecutive quarters and has also exceeded revenue in 14 of those quarters. Coca-Cola (KO) shares have underperformed the Consumer Staples sector over the past 52 weeks, declining 1%.