Gloomy future for fizzy drinks

Drinks companies must make products healthier or perish, soft drinks giant Britvic said today, as it revealed pure juices had outsold full-sugar colas in 2005.

Companies need to react quickly to the "sea change of public opinion" as consumers seek out low and non-sugar drinks as part of a healthier lifestyle, said Britvic chief executive Paul Moody, speaking at the launch of the drinks giant's Soft Drinks Category Report 2006.

"It is quite clear the industry should not look at these changes as threats, but as a real opportunity," said Moody. "The changes to school vending laws, as well as the increase in pub opening hours, is something we should take advantage of."

Soft drinks value in the UK increased by 5% in 2005 with sales of £7.8b, according to the Britvic report. But while full sugar drinks sales have been falling, healthy drinks saw biggest-ever sales last year.

In terms of value, smoothie brands grew by 100% in 2005, with dairy drinks up 35%, mineral water rising 16% and pure juice and mineral water up 7%.

By Jim Butcher

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Source: mad.co.uk