Standard&Poor's Ratings Services' ratings on Atlanta, Ga.-based The Coca-Cola Co. (Coke) continue to reflect our excellent business risk assessment stemming from its position as the world's largest nonalcoholic beverage company, as well as its geographic diversification, which we believe will continue to translate into strong profitability and cash flow. Strong brand awareness continues to contribute to Coke's roughly 42% leading share in the mature U.S. carbonated soft drink (CSD) market, an estimated worldwide CSD market share of 50%, and the No. 2 share position in the U.S. nonalcoholic beverage category (according to Beverage Digest). The company's excellent business profile is supported by 15 billion-dollar brands, including the Coca-Cola brand, the world's most valuable global brand according to Interbrand.
