Britvic has reported a further fall in UK revenue – down 1.2% with Actual Realised Price (ARP) flat for the 12 weeks to 20 December.
The company said GB volumes were also down slightly, which it said reflected tough trading conditions in the grocery channel which affected both carbonates and stills portfolios.
The company added: “Overall we continued to take value share led in particular by a strong performance by Pepsi Max.”
Ireland revenue increased 1%,fuelled by a strong performance by Counterpoint, Britvic’s wholesale division, as it continued to expand its presence in the on premise channel. This was partially offset by a weaker carbonates performance.
Globally, Britvic‘s reported revenue was £311.6m, 4.8% ahead of last year. On an organic basis reported revenue declined 2.4% to £290.1m.
Simon Litherland, chief executive, said: “As anticipated, our first quarter performance reflected both the prevailing challenging trading conditions and a slow start in October. However trading over the entire Christmas period in our core markets was encouraging, with revenue ahead of last year, and in the quarter, we grew or held market value share in each of these markets.
“Following the completion of the EBBA acquisition on 30 September 2015, our first quarter performance in Brazil was in line with our expectations and our integration plans are progressing well. In the United States preparation for the launch of the Fruit Shoot multi-pack into the grocery channel is on track.
“With strong marketing and innovation plans for the year ahead, and an ongoing focus on cost control, we reaffirm our EBITA guidance range of £180m to £190m for 2016.”
