The largest bottler of Coca-Cola Cos reported better than expected profit during the quarter driven by volume growth in Europe which offset a decline in North America, and the company stood by its full-year forecast.

Company's worldwide sales volume grew 5 per cent in the fourth quarter aided by strong growth in emerging markets, including India, Brazil, Mexico and China. However, the company's Net revenue grew slightly, by 5.4 per cent in the fourth quarter to touch $7.51 billion, as against $7.13 billion in the same period last year and its net profit was $1.54 billion in the quarter under review, as against $995 million in the corresponding period a year before.

Fourth quarter 2009 reported operating income increased 4 percent, and comparable currency neutral operating income was even. Reported operating income for the full year decreased 3 percent. Comparable currency neutral full year operating income increased 7 percent, in line with our long-term growth target. This was driven by a continued strong focus on cost management and the leveraging of productivity initiatives.

According to the Muhtar Kent, Chairman and chief executive officer, Coca-Cola, company ended the year on a high note, delivering global volume and value share gains, comparable currency neutral revenue growth, improved productivity and increased cash flows.