Coke still wants to teach the world to sing (starting with China)

COCA-COLA has announced a $4bn investment in China and emerged with comments that shine an uncomfortably harsh light on its home market. CEO Muhtar Kent risked infuriating his US constituency by claiming China was more business friendly than America, citing antiquated tax systems and political gridlock as reasons why the US has become less competitive. China by contrast is much more open with a streamlined foreign investment agency and cities lining up to attract investment. China represents 7% of Coca-Cola's sales and around 6% of operating profits, more than double that of just five years ago. Kent’s company has delighted shareholders who have seen the value of their holding increase 17% in the past year. As with every successful operation, the pressure is on Coke to continue to deliver. In addition to emerging markets like China and Brazil, the company hasn’t ruled out acquiring rivals in the space and has been linked with Pepsico’s snackfoods unit. What is for sure is that its global ambitions will keep it in the top tier of sponsors among those properties that are the real thing.