Coca-Cola Enterprises (CCE), a Western European marketer, distributor and producer of bottles and liquid nonalcoholic refreshment cans, has reported 8% fall in its operating income to $306m for the third quarter (Q3) ended on 28 September 2012 from $330m during the same period the previous year.

Operating income fell 1% on a comparable and currency neutral basis in Q3 2012 versus third quarter 2011 results.

The company posted net sales of $2.1bn, a decline of 3.5% from the same quarter a year ago on a reported basis, up 4.5% on a currency neutral basis, and up 2.5% on a currency neutral basis.

Gross profit of CCE declined from $808m in third quarter of 2011 to $775m in the present quarter.

CCE chairman and CEO John Brock said they continue to manage each element of their business, including their operating plans, operating costs and their balance sheet, to drive growth even as they face the challenges of ongoing macroeconomic weakness.

"We are committed to taking the steps necessary, such as our Business Transformation Program, to continue to serve customers and consumers at the highest levels, grow our business, and create long-term shareowner value," Brock added.

CCE executive vice president and European Group president Hubert Patricot said despite difficult operating conditions, they believe the third quarter was an important success as CCE employees responded in an exceptional way to the significant opportunities and demands of the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"We will build on the long-term benefits of our involvement with the Games while working diligently to enhance efficiency and maximize effectiveness in ways that sustain customer service and drive value for customers, consumers, and our shareowners," Patricot added.