Summer falling flat due to gas shortage

ASDA has introduced a cap on the number of fizzy drinks customers can buy due to the country’s CO2 shortage.

It has imposed a cap of six bottles or multipacks of soft drinks, such as Pepsi, Fanta, 7Up, Coke and its own brand drinks.

The cap has been introduced in the wake of a shortage of CO2, which has also affected crumpet-maker Warburtons.

Asda defended the move, saying: “Given the issues affecting the whole industry, we’ve proactively managed the supply of some products such as soft drinks to ensure we’ve got enough to go around.”

Iceland and Lidl have also reported a shortage of carbonated beverages as production by top brands fell due to concerns over supply.

Pubs, bars and restaurants across the country say they are running out of major beer brands ahead of one of the busiest weekends of the year.

A combination of warm weather and World Cup enthusiasm has been a major boost for British pub-owners in recent weeks - but some have voiced concerns there may not be enough fizz to go around.

The supply shortage has been caused by the closure of several major ammonia factories which produce CO2 as a by-product.

Producers are confident that production of CO2 can increase as early as next week, but may it may be some time before customers feel the effects. A spokesperson for the British Retail Council said: “The Issues remain with the supply of CO2 across Europe. Retailers and suppliers are working hard to ensure food availability is maintained.”