Investors looking for a reliable dividend and free cash flow grower could do a lot worse than Coca-Cola in 2026.In any given year, even the worst-performing sectors can be homes to some solid performers. That's been the case this year in the consumer packaged goods space. Previously prized for its low volatility traits, consumer staples is an epicenter of disappointment for investors in 2025.Thank goodness for Coca-Cola (KO +1.96%). Amid ongoing artificial intelligence (AI) hoopla and talk of restrained con ...

Core Insights - Jack in the Box is responding to inflationary pressures by enhancing customer value through larger drink sizes and lower prices [1] Group 1: Company Initiatives - Starting October 1, Jack in the Box will reintroduce larger cup sizes, providing customers with 25% more ounces in every soda [1]

It’s time to take the air out of shrinkflation.We're back with another real conversation.This is Human Nature: Episode 2. https://t.co/0Jx5guwgzb ...

Market Trends - Rising cocoa prices are leading to shrinkflation at Hershey's [1]

Core Insights - Dollar General reported a strong revenue growth of 5.3% in the first quarter, with comparable sales increasing by 2.4% year-over-year, indicating robust performance despite previous strong numbers [1] - The growth is attributed to delivery initiatives, including a partnership with DoorDash, which has attracted a new and diverse customer base, particularly higher-income shoppers [1][2] - The company has seen an increase in store visits, with a 1.9% year-over-year rise in first-quarter visits and a 6.5% increase in April visits, suggesting improved customer engagement [3] Delivery and Customer Trends - The partnership with DoorDash has been described as "phenomenal," facilitating higher-income shoppers' access to Dollar General without needing to visit the store physically [2] - Customers are increasingly opting for Dollar General over more expensive retailers, a trend that has continued into the second quarter [3] Store Experience and Product Offering - Dollar General has invested in store renovations to enhance the shopping experience, which has positively impacted sales [3] - The retailer maintains a broad assortment of items priced at $1 or less, with over 2,000 such items available, appealing to budget-conscious consumers [4] - The company has utilized partnerships with suppliers to offer smaller package sizes, a strategy referred to as shrinkflation, to keep prices low [4] Consumer Behavior - The current economic cycle has led consumers to seek affordable luxuries and name-brand products, which Dollar General is positioned to provide at accessible price points [5] - The combination of convenient delivery options and low price points is helping Dollar General attract a new cohort of shoppers amid rising economic pressures on U.S. households [5]