PepsiCo, fresh off a strong third quarter, says new products will soon boost customer demand

Core Insights - PepsiCo is optimistic that new product launches, such as protein-infused Starbucks coffee and low-sugar Gatorade, will enhance consumer demand in the upcoming year [1] - The company is actively eliminating underperforming products and reinvesting in innovative offerings, including a new line of Doritos and Cheetos without artificial ingredients [2] - Innovation is deemed essential for capturing growing market segments, with a focus on urgency in product development [3] Financial Performance - PepsiCo reported a total revenue increase of 2.6% to $23.94 billion for the July-September period, surpassing Wall Street expectations of $23.84 billion [5] - Net income decreased by 11% to $2.6 billion, but adjusted earnings per share of $2.29 exceeded analysts' forecasts of $2.26 [5] - North American beverage revenue rose by 2%, driven by successful new flavors and products [4] Market Challenges - The company faces pressure from Elliott Investment Management, which has taken a $4 billion stake and highlighted issues such as loss of market share in North American beverages and slowing growth in the food sector [6] - Elliott advocates for a streamlined portfolio to allow reinvestment in core brands and suggests considering refranchising North American bottlers [7] - CEO Ramon Laguarta described discussions with Elliott as constructive, emphasizing a shared belief that PepsiCo is undervalued [7]