Britvic sales growth 'gathering pace'

Robinsons and Tango maker Britvic yesterday said sales growth had gathered pace despite continued pressure on its performance in pubs.

The group's revenues in Britain were up 4 per cent in the six months to 17 April, with the second quarter showing growth of 6.8 per cent after a reduction in promotional activity contributed to an increase in average prices.

The group, which has the rights to sell Pepsi products in the UK, said volumes of fizzy drinks rose 4.7 per cent following an increase in sales through supermarkets and shops. However, this was partly offset by a decline of 6.1 per cent in still drinks.

Group pre-tax profits were flat in the six months at 27.7 million after the company faced an "unprecedented" period of cost inflation, such as the rising price of steel and sugar.