Coca-Cola's third-quarter revenue and sales increased 16%, prompting a 2-point raise in its full-year earnings-per-share forecast to 15% to 17%. The strong quarter is attributed to the reopening of event venues and an increase in marketing spending, according to CEO James Quincey.

PepsiCo aims to boost its digital and artificial intelligence-driven capabilities, such as predictive analytics regarding sales and inventory, by opening its first digital hubs in Dallas, Texas, and Barcelona, Spain, with more hubs to follow. "PepsiCo's digital hubs will greatly influence the way the organization reinvents planning, making, moving, selling and delivering products," according to a company statement.

The a2 Milk Co. is featuring Hershey's cocoa in a new 2% chocolate milk product. Hershey's a2 Chocolate Milk will debut in January in 59-ounce refrigerated cartons and a shelf-stable, single-serve size that's also available in six- and 18-packs.

Alternative dairy milks have gained mainstream appeal with oat milk sales up 95% and 40% of US adults regularly purchasing almond milk, according to industry analysts. Dairy milk sales have retreated slightly from pandemic-related gains, but refrigerated traditional dairy remains the biggest seller in the milk category, according to Dasha Shor, global food analyst and registered dietitian at Mintel.

General Mills will roll out the Doolies brand of fiber-rich smoothies and snacks for kids next month on Amazon prior to "exploring a retail strategy," according to a company statement. The products aim to relieve periodic constipation in children with fruit-based fiber and prebiotics and probiotics, which are known to support digestive health.

An Outbrain holiday shopping survey reveals that 54% of shoppers worldwide value brand accessibility and availability when making purchase decisions, followed by sustainability (47%) and brands supporting local businesses (43%). Watching a video about a product is a key part of the decision process for 61% of those surveyed, while 45% are most engaged with swipeable ads, when asked about ad formats.

Forbes Agency Council members offer tips to help brands maximize their Facebook and Instagram Stories to drive website traffic and sales. Advice includes using compelling creative, calls to action and sticker links; using music, hashtags and location tags to enhance organic search results; and encouraging visits by spotlighting "Secret Story" discount codes.

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