European Soft Drink Sales Growth Slowed in September
Data for the period ending September 6, 2026, showed value growth moderating to 4.6% as price and mix contributions rose.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Economic Indicators
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European soft drinks value growth slowed to 4.6% in the four weeks ending September 6, 2026, while volume growth moderated to 1.4%. Favourable weather provided support to the category during this period.
Why it matters
The shift highlights how rising price and mix contributions, which increased to 3.2%, are offsetting thinner volume gains. Analysts at Jefferies maintain a positive outlook on the sector despite the overall slowdown in growth.
Price and mix contributions to growth increased to 3.2% from 2.8%. Sales volume performance varied significantly by country, with growth of 8.2% in Italy and 5.4% in France, contrasted by a 2.3% decline in Germany.
The players
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
This major consumer goods company is a leading independent bottler for Coca-Cola products across multiple global markets.
Jefferies
This global investment banking firm provides research and analysis on corporate performance and market sectors.
The details
Regional performance was mixed, with Germany experiencing a 2.3% drop in sales volume while other markets saw expansion. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners saw its market share in Great Britain settle at 49.6%, with away-from-home sales accounting for 40% of its total business.
Timeline
The data reflects performance during the four weeks ending September 6, 2026.
Macro View
This performance data follows the trajectory of the Jefferies European soft drinks sector analysis. It mirrors historical patterns where price-driven growth masks underlying volume stagnation in mature consumer markets.
Consumers in the European market may notice continued price adjustments as companies rely on price and mix strategies to maintain value growth. Shoppers in different countries will see varying availability and pricing based on local volume trends.
The takeaway
The data demonstrates that price increases are becoming the primary driver of value in the European soft drink market. Readers should anticipate that brands will continue to focus on premiumization strategies to combat stagnating sales volumes.
Further reading
For more information on broader regional performance, visit Economic Indicators.
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