DRINKS group C&C has reported a strong first- half performance – helped by growth in its British operations – and remains on course to meet full-year targets, despite a continuous challenging trading environment.

C&C IS rumoured to be in the early planning stages concerning the partial sale of its non-core spirits and liqueurs division, in a move which could free up funding for a bid for another significant acquisition in Britain sometime next year.

IRISH drinks group, C&C has increased its presence in Britain’s drinks market by reaching agreement to buy the British cider assets of international drinks group, Constellation Brands, for £45 million (€50m) in cash.