SOFT drinks firm Britvic has reported a sparkling 16.3% rise in half-year profits.
The company, which includes Birkby-based Pennine Spring bottled water among its brands, posted pre-tax profits before one-off costs at £20m in the six months to March 28.That compares with £17.2m for the same period last year.
Britvic, which also owns Robinsons squash, said group sales rose by 6.3% in the six months – with revenues "accelerating" in the second half of the period.
Robinsons increased market share by volume by 3.5% in the half-year. Plans for the brand include a tie-in with a national pantomime programme later this year.
Fruit Shoot increased volume market share by 1.7% – making it the largest children’s grocery brand in the UK.
