Coca-Cola's Costa Coffee Sale Talks as Trading Volume Plummets 35.68 to 85th in Activity

On August 27, 2025, The traded with a volume of $0.79 billion, reflecting a 35.68% decline compared to the prior day and ranking 85th in trading activity. This follows ongoing strategic reviews by Coca-Cola, which has initiated exploratory discussions regarding the potential sale of its Costa Coffee chain. Apollo Global Management is in early-stage negotiations with advisers, while other private equity firms like KKR have engaged in preliminary talks but are unlikely to submit formal bids. The move aligns with Coca-Cola’s broader strategy to address operational challenges and inflationary pressures, as Costa reported a £9.6 million loss in its latest financial year despite revenue growth.

Coca-Cola acquired Costa Coffee in 2018 for $5.1 billion to expand its global coffee footprint, but recent performance has prompted a reevaluation. The potential divestiture could signal a shift in the company’s focus, particularly as the coffee market remains competitive with players like Starbucks and Nestlé. Analysts note that the outcome of these discussions will depend on bid valuations and strategic alignment, with no immediate offers expected. The process highlights a trend in the packaged food sector, where firms seek scale to navigate inflation and evolving consumer preferences.

Recent developments in related markets include ENGO Eyewear’s launch of its ENGO 2 smart eyewear, Healthy Extracts expanding its product line on Amazon, and legal challenges faced by Palantir Technologies. Additionally, the global smart shelves market is projected to grow significantly through 2027. These updates underscore a dynamic landscape across multiple industries, though their direct impact on The’s stock remains speculative at this stage.