Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a decrease in advertising expenses, down by over $500 million in 2025, which was unexpected and attributed to efficiency gains in both working and non-working advertising [23][24] - The company expects to see a balanced EPS performance throughout the year, with sales growth anticipated to strengthen in the second half as initiatives gain traction [15][72] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects Frito-Lay to grow in volume, net revenue, and operating margin in 2026, with early growth anticipated in the year [13][15] - The average space gain for Frito-Lay is projected to be double-digit, indicating significant growth in shelf space due to pricing investments [14][45] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The international business is expected to maintain mid-single-digit growth, with positive trends noted in Mexico, China, and South Africa, while Western Europe shows weaker performance [28][71] - The company is optimistic about the North American beverage business, expecting continued acceleration in growth [28][52] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on affordability initiatives to drive category growth, particularly targeting low and middle-income consumers [6][7] - A multi-vector strategy is being employed to enhance category participation, including investments in innovation and restaging major brands like Gatorade and Quaker [18][34] - The company is addressing the potential impact of GLP-1 medication adoption by focusing on portion control and healthier product offerings [40][41] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted that the middle and low-income consumer remains stretched, necessitating a focus on value to earn their business [71] - The company is optimistic about its growth prospects, particularly in the second half of the year, driven by new initiatives and acquisitions [15][28] Other Important Information - The company is conducting tests in Texas and Florida to merge food and beverage distribution, aiming for cost efficiency and improved customer service [65][66] - The company is seeing good returns from its innovation efforts, particularly with products like Naked and Pepsi prebiotics [32][34] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide more details on the affordability initiatives? - Management emphasized a surgical approach to pricing investments, focusing on specific brands and channels to enhance affordability and drive volume growth [20][21] Question: What drove the decline in advertising expenses? - The decline was attributed to efficiency gains, and management expects advertising to increase in 2026 to support growth [23][24] Question: What are the expectations for organic sales growth in 2026? - Management anticipates acceleration in organic sales, particularly from the North American business and acquisitions transitioning to organic growth [26][27] Question: How is the company addressing the impact of GLP-1 medications? - The company is focusing on portion control and healthier product innovations to remain relevant in the market [40][41] Question: Can you elaborate on the shelf space gains? - The company is achieving double-digit shelf space gains across multiple store areas, driven by increased affordability and volume [14][45] Question: What is the outlook for the beverage segment? - Management is optimistic about improving margins and competitiveness in the beverage segment, particularly with energy drinks [52][53] Question: How is the company managing its distribution strategy? - The company is integrating food and beverage distribution to eliminate duplications and enhance efficiency [65][66] Question: What is the macroeconomic outlook for the company? - Management expects a consistent operating environment, with varying trends across different international markets [71][72]