Coca-Cola profits up

Coca-Cola reported a jump in third-quarter profits behind higher sales in North America as it boosts investment in non-carbonated beverages. The soda giant notched profits of $1.9 billion, up 30 percent from the year-ago period. Revenues fell 9.2 percent to $8.2 billion.
Sales surged 12 percent in North America, with Coca-Cola pointing to pricing increases, especially in sparkling soft drinks, offset somewhat by higher shipping costs. Especially strong brands included the diet soda Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, as well as Sprite, premium waters and the smartwater line, the company said.