Interim Management Statement

RNS Number : 3126W

Barr(A.G.) PLC

10 June 2008

 



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                     10 JUNE, 2008

A.G.BARR p.l.c.

Interim Management Statement

A.G.BARR p.l.c. today announces its Interim Management Statement for the period commencing 27 January, 2008.

Revenue for the first 13 weeks of the financial year increased by 4% when compared with the prior year.  This is a strong performance especially when compared to an 11% like-for-like performance in the same period last year which was boosted by above average weather and the positive impact of promotional phasing.

Revenue performance in core carbonate brands, particularly in IRN-BRU, has been strong and overall sales have benefited from new products including Rockstar, Taut, Vitsmart and the growing St Clement's fruit drinks and smoothie range. We continue to look for suitable

opportunities to develop our brand portfolio further.

Operating margins are in line with expectations with continued pressure from rising rising raw

material prices being offset by product price increases and further improvements in material

usage implemented during the period.

Our balance sheet remains strong and there have been no significant changes in the financial position of the Company since the publication of the Report & Accounts in respect of the year ended 26 January, 2008. 

Outlook

Trading in May has seen the benefit of some improved weather however we continue to assume we will experience average weather conditions across the summer this year.  Our trading outlook remains in line with expectations.

For further information, please contact:

A.G.Barr                                                   Tel:    [phone]

Roger White, Chief Executive

Alex Short, Finance Director

Buchanan Communications             Tel:    [phone]

Tim Thompson / Nicola Cronk

 

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