Coca-Cola Prices to Increase Starting in September

Inflation stabilized at 2.3% in July, but starting September 1st, we might face the impact of “COLAflation.” Coca-Cola, the beverage giant, is raising its wholesale prices for all products. Florian von Salzen, CEO of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Germany, confirmed to BILD: “The price adjustment averages in the single-digit percentage range across all products and packaging.” However, insiders suggest that the increase could be closer to nine percent rather than three!

This price hike affects not only Coca-Cola’s classic sodas but also their iced tea, spritzers, water, and energy drinks, including popular brands like Sprite and Fanta.

While Coca-Cola sets the terms for retailers, it doesn’t control the prices on store shelves, which could still see significant hikes in some cases. A Hamburg beverage retailer informed BILD that a crate of 12 one-liter returnable bottles might soon cost 19.99 euros—plus deposit! Leading beverage market chains declined to comment on this when approached by BILD.

Why are the prices going up for retailers? Von Salzen points to increased expenses, particularly in investments: “Additionally, some costs, such as those for ingredients, packaging materials, and services, remain high. We have also recently honored our employees’ performance with a significant wage increase.”

So, what can we expect? Could a crate of 12 one-liter bottles of Coca-Cola really cost 20 euros? “Unusual,” says Coca-Cola, but not impossible. The non-discounted shelf price in beverage stores currently ranges between 14 and 17 euros, with some limited-time special offers even below 10 euros.

Insiders say that such promotional deals will continue. After all, branded products like Coca-Cola beverages draw customers into stores, driving sales and margins for retailers.