Irn-bru maker AG Barr (LON:BAG) saw a big rally in its latest quarter but remains cautious ahead of the Christmas period.
The group, which also owns juice brand Rubicon, said trading for the 18 weeks to November 28 was much better than the previous two quarters, with sales up almost 4% compared to the previous year.
Revenue for the year so far has declined 2.2% on a reported basis, after a tough first half, but the company said “revenue performance in the third quarter has gained momentum.”
“Our sales execution activities are well developed and, as previously stated, assuming satisfactory Christmas trading, the company remains on track to meet the board's expectations for the year,” the company said.
The soft-drinks maker said it has maintained its market share despite tough conditions and has put its first-half issues behind it.
Earlier this year, the firm blamed bad weather, increased competition and a lack of promotions, for a weaker first half, as soft drinks prices continue to fall.
It also updated on the warehouse expansion project at its Milton Keynes site, which is nearing completion and will add flexibility.