Britvic continues to outperform its market

Announcing its financial results for the six months to 11 April, Britvic said it had gained market share across its core brands of Pepsi, 7UP, Tango, Robinsons, J2O and Fruit Shoot. The company had executed strong brand programmes, supported by effective execution in the marketplace, as well as an innovation programme which had again focused on brand extensions and pack mix within the existing portfolio; Chief executive Paul Moody commented: "Britvic has put in another strong performance during the period, delivering double-digit growth in both operating profit and earnings. Whilst the severe winter weather and tough comparable period in the prior period contributed to a slowing in GB/International revenue growth in the second quarter; our brands have continued to take market share across key categories. Our portfolio has also been further strengthened by the new GB innovation programme consisting of both Britvic and PepsiCo brand launches. "Trading conditions in Ireland remain difficult with consumers focused on price, but our synergies programme continues on track and has helped to deliver a modest return to profit. During the period we saw sustained market growth in GB, and recent conditions across the wider market have continued to demonstrate elements of recovery. However visibility in both GB and Ireland beyond the short-term remains limited. "Trading in the early weeks of the second half has been robust and, following the strong first half performance, gives the Board confidence that we will meet the full-year expectations." Revenue over the 28 week period were 4.6% up at £505.3 million from £483.2 million over the same period of the previous year while pre-tax profit climbed 39% to £27.8 million (£20.0m).