8 Best Low Float Stocks to Invest in Now

4. Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. (NASDAQ:COKE)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 28

Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. (NASDAQ:COKE) is the largest independent bottler of Coca-Cola products in the United States. The company manufactures, distributes, and markets a wide range of nonalcoholic beverages, including Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, Fanta, and Dasani, along with partner and private-label brands. It operates production and distribution facilities across multiple states, serving retailers, restaurants, and other businesses. COKE generates revenue through direct sales and distribution agreements with The Coca-Cola Company, and plays a key role in the US beverage supply chain, focusing on bottling, logistics, and customer service.

Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. (NASDAQ:COKE) delivered robust financial results in 2024, with fiscal year net sales rising 3.7% to $6.9 billion and Q4 net sales up 7.1% to $1.7 billion. Gross profit for Q4 grew 8.8% to $697.9 million, accompanied by a 70-basis-point increase in gross margin to 40%. Income from operations experienced remarkable growth, surging 22.6% to $218.7 million in Q4 and climbing $85.9 million to $920.4 million for the full year. These achievements were underpinned by the strength of Sparkling brands (particularly Zero calorie offerings) strategic pricing initiatives, and increased demand in club and value retail channels for multi-serve, value-oriented packages. The company also demonstrated strong financial management, generating $876.4 million in operating cash flow for 2024, up from $810.7 million in 2023. Investments in growth were substantial, with $371 million allocated to supply chain enhancements and other initiatives, alongside shareholder-focused actions such as $626 million in stock repurchases and an increased annualized dividend of $10 per share.

Looking ahead to 2025, Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. (NASDAQ:COKE) anticipates slower financial growth but remains optimistic about delivering solid margins and robust cash generation. Management is encouraged by the ongoing success of Sparkling brands and is poised to enhance the performance of its Still portfolio through well-crafted commercial strategies. This forward-looking approach, combined with disciplined capital allocation, positions the company for continued strength in the beverage market. With a share float of only 5.18 million, COKE is one of the best low float stocks to invest in now.