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Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PLC on Tuesday reported an increase in annual earnings and announced a share buyback of up to €1 billion. The soft drinks bottler, which operates in over 30 markets including Australia, Germany, Great Britain and Spain, said pretax profit in 2025 rose by a third to €2.57 billion from €1.94 billion. Revenue improved 2.3% to €20.90 billion from €20.44 billion. Operating profit surged 31% to €2.79 billion. CCEP’s revenue rose 2.3% on a comparable basis, beating the Vuma-cited consensus of 1.2%. ‘2025 has been another strong year for CCEP. We continue to refresh our consumers and lead value creation for our customers across beverage categories that are growing strongly. We delivered robust top and bottom-line growth, generated strong free cash flow and again grew shareholder returns. Our consumers continued to enjoy a wonderful portfolio of beverages, our revenue growth reflecting the ongoing demand for value from consumers but also for innovation and premiumisation. Our business continues to become more efficient, our multi-year productivity programmes supporting resilient profit growth and investment for the future,’ Chief Executive Officer Damian Gammell said. ‘We remain resilient in vibrant categories even though the consumer environment remains challenging. We’re investing more than ever in growth and greater productivity to drive expanding operating margins. With strong commercial and innovation plans in place, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, we’re excited about what this year will bring to customers and consumers.’ CCEP lifted its final dividend by 1.6% to €1.25 per share from €1.23 a year prior. Its total dividend was raised 3.6% to €2.04 per share. For 2026, it expects revenue growth between 3% and 4% and an operating profit rise of roughly 7%. ‘Our guidance, combined with a growing dividend and further €1 billion of share buybacks demonstrate the strength of this great business and our ability to deliver attractive and consistent shareholder value. All whilst continuing to be a great partner for our customers and a great place to work for our fantastic colleagues,’ Gammell said. CCEP said the €1 billion buyback kicks off on Wednesday and is to be completed before the end of February 2027. Shares in the company climbed 1.1% to 7,510.00 pence each in London on Tuesday morning. Copyright 2026 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
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