Associated British Foods, the company behind budget retailer Primark, has said a stronger pound and dollar would have a bigger-than-expected hit on full-year earnings and could weigh on profits in its new financial year.

Britvic said the recall of its popular children’s drinks Robinsons Fruit Shoot and Fruit Shoot Hydro packs last week would hurt its earnings more than expected, raising concerns among analysts that the company’s image could take a hit.

Dairy Crest Group is looking to sell its French branded spreads business, St Hubert, in a deal that analysts expect will fetch the dairy foods company about €360m.

Robinsons and Tango firm Britvic has reported improved sales growth after UK consumers bought more soft drinks for the home in the run-up to Christmas.