After 86 years.. Robinsons is out

ROBINSONS and Wimbledon have called game, set and match on their sponsorship deal after 86 years.

The break-up is believed to have come after the All England Lawn Tennis Club said owner Britvic could not promote other brands such as energy drink Rockstar Energy at the Championships.

The deal began after lemon barley water was created by Eric Smedley Hodgson. He mixed patented barley crystals with lemon juice, sugar and water to make a refreshing drink for players and umpires in 1934.

It was such a hit he was invited back in 1935, and Robinsons Barley Water was produced commercially.

A Britvic spokesman said: “We are tremendously proud to have been such a prominent partner.”