Carbonates in Uruguay

PROSPECTS

Low-calorie cola carbonates category sees healthiest performance

The carbonates category saw an improved performance in 2019 compared with the previous year, with higher growth in current value terms and only a marginal decline in volume. The volume growth of carbonates has declined notably in recent years, with consumers reducing their spending as the purchasing power of low- and middle-income consumers fell.

Men and children are increasingly consuming low-calorie products

Uruguayans are paying greater attention to their personal appearance and health, and thus also the food and drink products they consume. This has led to manufacturers launching new products to cater for consumers’ changing demands.

Non-cola carbonates perceived as healthier, could offer potential for growth with new launches

With Uruguayans paying more attention to the products they consume, there are opportunities for manufacturers to further develop the non-cola carbonates category. Cola carbonates have traditionally been the preferred option in the country, accounting for the majority of both volume and value sales.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Promotional activities and tasting sessions in tourist locations support Coca-Cola No Sugar, along with variety of packaging formats

Montevideo Refrescos SA remained the leading company in the carbonates category in 2019. Its position is underpinned by the Coca-Cola portfolio, along with great investments in advertising and promotion to launch new low-calorie versions such as Coca-Cola No Sugar, Sprite No Sugar, and Schweppes No Sugar.

FNC expected to focus on lighter products, but remain a distant second to Montevideo Refrescos SA

Fábricas Nacionales de Cerveza SA (FNC), driving PepsiCo’s soft drinks presence in Uruguay, occupied second position in the category with Pepsi, 7-UP, Mirinda, and the national brand, Paso de los Toros. The company lost some ground at the end of the review period due to the advance of secondary brands.

Local players appeal to less affluent consumers, enjoy strong distribution through traditional channel

Local companies gained presence in the carbonates category in 2019. Their position was driven by value-priced brands, and strong distribution through the traditional channel.

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