Euan Sutherland

Turnover for the year ending 25 January is expected to reach approximately £420 million, up from £400m the previous year. Irn-Bru, Rubicon, and Boost all recorded solid growth, with Rubicon being the “stand-out performer” with double-digit revenue increases.

Profit margins also improved, rising from 12.3% to 13.5%. Analysts have subsequently upgraded pre-tax profit forecasts by around £1m to £58m. The company, which also owns brands like Tizer, Funkin cocktails, and Moma oat products, invested £19m in capital projects, including improvements to bottling capacity and efficiency.

Boost, an energy drink acquired in 2022, saw improved profitability in the second half of the year, and plans to bring its manufacturing in-house are on track. Funkin cocktails experienced growth through wider retail distribution, offsetting challenges in the hospitality sector.

AG Barr ended the financial year with £60m of net cash on its balance sheet. Chief executive Euan Sutherland highlighted the results as “excellent progress” towards long-term financial goals.

He said: “We have sustained brand momentum despite the well-trailed wider market pressures, and continue to make good progress towards our margin target.”

The company recently ended its long-standing partnership with Edinburgh-based The Leith Agency, moving its advertising account to Lucky Generals in London.