Coca-Cola ends speculation over Costa Coffee sale – but major international market under review

The US beverage giant has finally put rumours of a sales process to bed – at least for now – but Costa’s future in a key growth market remains uncertain

After months of speculation and swirling rumours about the future of Costa Coffee under Coca-Cola’s ownership, the US beverage giant has stepped in to provide clarity.

The Coca-Cola Company will maintain full ownership of Costa Coffee, it has confirmed, but says the coffee chain must improve performance in a key international market.

Atlanta-based Coca-Cola was reported to have pulled the plug on selling Costa in January 2026 after receiving underwhelming bids and seeing an eleventh-hour bid to get a deal over the line with preferred bidder TDR Capital failed to materialise.