Britvic signs two distribution deals apart from entering into merger deal with AG Barr

Britvic is all set to distribute its Fruit Shoot drink in 30 US states by summer 2013 after entering into a distribution deal with PepsiCo American Beverages (PAB). The British drinks giant has also sealed another deal with PepsiCo South West Europe which will see Britvik distribute the brand in Spain this spring.

Britvic has carried out a successful trial of Fruit Shoot in nine US states, which has led to the launch of the brand into the convenience and gas stores in an additional 21 states. Britvic has also announced its first quarter trading performance with group revenue up by 4.8% to £303.2 million, with strong growth in average price realised.

The drinks firms revenue grew 5.4% with volume and average realised price increasing by 2.1% and 3.2% respectively. Britvic’s Irish revenues declined 2.8% due to the third party products distributed in Britvic’s licensed wholesale business, with average price realised up 7.6% against a volume decrease of 2.4%.

French revenues of Britvic grew 4.3% following last year’s 12.6% growth, with average price realised growing 7.3% benefitting from price increases and pack changes implemented during the last quarter. Volume declined by 1.7% with value flat during the quarter. International revenues grew by 35.6% with average price realised and volume up 17.5% and 15.4% respectively. Britvic’s success in international markets was mainly attributed to the reintroduction of Fruit Shoot in the Nettherlands.

Apart from the two distribution deals with PepsiCo, Britvic is also entering into a £1.4 billion merger with AG Barr, subject to approval from the Office of Fair Trading. The effective date for the merger is February 26, 2013, having already received shareholders approval.