Coca-Cola looks to home as US outpaces rest of world

New York

COCA-COLA Co, after years of counting on overseas markets to fuel its expansion, is once again looking homeward for growth.

The company's North American sales rose 2 per cent in the fourth quarter, the biggest domestic gain in two years. That outshone the performance of international divisions, where sluggish local economies and a strong dollar eroded sales.

Coca-Cola is benefiting from a resilient US consumer who's willing to pay higher prices than many overseas customers. Juice and tea sales al…