More uncertainty is the ‘biggest issue’

Adam Galica | CNBC

James Quincey, CEO of Coca-Cola Co., speaking at the 2019 WEF in Davos, Switzerland on Jan. 23rd, 2019.

“There’s been more volatility over the last couple years, so I think people are going into it going, ‘OK, a little harder than last year,’ but I feel a degree of uncertainty out there that you can’t quite put your finger on,” Quincey said.

One source of uncertainty is the U.S. and China trade war. The countries are trying to negotiate a deal before a 90-day tariff truce expires on March 2. But he said the effect on the beverage company is “slightly indirect” because its products for the China market are made there.

No matter what happens with the economy and global uncertainty, Quincey said the company will focus on keeping up with consumer tastes and solving problems like the sugar content of its drinks and reducing packaging waste.