The latest update from Nielsen indicated that total beverage sales were up 1.9% for the four-week tracking period that ended on September 6. Once again, energy drink sales growth remained strong at 15.7% growth for the four weeks. Celsius Holdings (NASDAQ:CELH) sales grew +41.7% as the addition of Alani Nu factored in. Monster Beverage (MNST) sales were up +9.7% for the four-week period.
In the carbonated soft drink category, Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO) outpaced PepsiCo (PEP) and Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP), as the Fairlife brand was strong, according to a dive into the Nielsen data by TD Cowen analyst Robert Moskow.
Total beer sales disappointed during the period that included the Labor Day holiday, with a 3.1% swing lower from the sales tally a year ago. Anheuser-Busch InBev (BUD) added market share with Michelob Ultra and Busch Light in positive territory, while total Molson Coors (TAP) sales were down 5.4%. Moskow reminded investors that Constellation Brands (STZ) announced a profit warning two weeks ago because beer sales have weakened recently in comparison to expectations.