Irn-Bru maker AG Barr said today its sales had fallen flat amid a competitive and volatile market.

Drinks brands Lucozade and Ribena were today reported to be a £1bn takeover target for the owner of Irn-Bru.

Drinks brands Robinsons squash and Irn-Bru are to be poured into the same company after their makers unveiled a £1.4bn (€1.75bn) merger deal today.

Banking shares kept the London market aloft today following bullish comment on the sector from investment brokers.

Irn-Bru soft drinks firm AG Barr overcame rising competition and poor summer weather to post a 27% hike in annual earnings today.

Irn-Bru and Tizer maker AG Barr moved into the sports drink sector today after unveiling a deal to acquire the owner of the Taut range.

Irn Bru-to-Tizer company AG Barr lifted underlying half-year profits today, despite a “sluggish” market for the carbonated drinks sector.