Drink giant’s profits fizz

ROBINSONS squash and J2O maker Britvic has posted a leap in annual profits as pandemic restrictions eased.

It has also forecast further progress over the year ahead despite cost pressures.

Britvic reported pre-tax profits of £142.9m for the year to September 30, up from £111.2m the previous year. Its first half trading was hit hard by the lockdowns – but the group saw a marked bounce back in the final six months as hospitality reopened.

Following a 12pc tumble in interim sales, revenues ended the year 6.5pc higher at constant exchange rates, at £1.4bn. But the firm said it is facing challenges from soaring costs and supply chain disruption.