PepsiCo finds growth in India as Americans pull back

295

PepsiCo’s latest quarter shows a clear split in global consumption: Americans are buying fewer sodas and snacks under inflation pressure, while India is helping power the company’s international growth. For investors and FMCG brands, the signal is blunt. Emerging markets are no longer just expansion stories; they are becoming earnings shock absorbers.

PepsiCo reported a 6.4% rise in second-quarter net revenue to $24.18 billion for the quarter ended June 13, 2026. Its International Beverage Franchise business recorded 5% organic volume growth, “led by India”, while international convenient foods grew 4% in organic volume. Asia Pacific Foods, which includes India, reported 12% net revenue growth.

North America remains the problem pocket. PepsiCo said US food and beverage category performance moderated as consumer budgets tightened due to rising inflationary pressures. Its North America beverage organic volume fell 4%, even as the company leaned on affordability initiatives and pack-price changes.

Chairman and CEO Ramon Laguarta said PepsiCo’s year-to-date global organic volume rose at its fastest rate since 2022, helped by “the strength of the international business” and a broader portfolio spanning portion control, hydration, protein, fibre and zero-sugar beverages.

India’s role is not accidental. PepsiCo India has committed ₹5,700 crore between 2025 and 2030 to expand food manufacturing, including facilities in Assam and Tamil Nadu and a ₹1,266 crore flavour plant in Ujjain.

The takeaway: PepsiCo’s next growth story may depend less on persuading stretched US shoppers to add chips at checkout, and more on building scale in markets such as India, where consumption, manufacturing and localised brands are still moving in the same direction.