PepsiCo lifts earnings forecast as North American divisions gain | Progresiv
PepsiCo Inc. posted second-quarter profit that beat analysts’ estimates and raised its full-year forecast as sales of snacks and soft drinks in North America helped overcome weaker results abroad. 
Earnings rose to 1.35 dollars a share, excluding some items, the Purchase, New York-based company said in a statement Thursday. Analysts estimated $1.29, on average. PepsiCo boosted its forecast for annual earnings growth to 9 percent from 8 percent.
Chief Executive Officer Indra Nooyi has benefited from the relative strength of the U.S. market as well as cost-cutting measures that have supported profitability. She also has worked to expand PepsiCo’s presence in emerging countries, but the shaky global economy and stronger dollar have hurt results in those regions.
Sales fell 3 percent to 15.4 billion dollars, meeting analysts’ average projection.
PepsiCo has increased its “better-for-you” offerings in light of declining soda consumption in the U.S. and other markets. The company announced a partnership with smoothie maker BarFresh Food Group Inc. in October and introduced a line of healthy vending machines in December. (www.esmmagazine.com)
