Barr keeps profits in line with hopes

Irn-Bru and Tizer maker AG Barr today said it expected its full year results to be in line with market expectations despite rising costs and a “weakness” in the soft drinks market.

The Glasgow-based drinks manufacturer said it was on course to meet hopes for profits of £17m (€24.8m) in the year to January 28, up from £16.3m (€23.7m).

The growth came in the face of rises in utility and oil prices over the last six months, which placed pressure on its factories and deliveries.

AG Barr operates from four manufacturing and distribution sites in England and Scotland – Cumbernauld, Atherton, Mansfield and Pitcox near Edinburgh. It is also building another factory in Glasgow, which should be completed in 2007.

In the last six months the company, which employs more 900 people, has focused on investing in technology and marketing such as the relaunch of its fizzy orange drink Orangina.

Chief executive Roger White said: “We are now seeing the benefits of our ongoing investment in brand building and innovation as well as our consistent control of key operating costs.”

AG Barr also produces KA tropical colas, a dandelion and burdock soft drink and St Clements Squeeze fruit drinks.

Annual results will be published on March 28.