Barr on track, hot weather lifts sales

8th Jun 2009 07:16

Soft drinks group AG Barr said overall trading remains in line with expectations with sunny weather boosting sales in the latter half of May.Total revenue for the period from 1 February to 29 May increased by 22.5% compared to the same period last year. Like for like sales, taking out the effect of the Rubicon acquisition, are up by 7.9%.Overall operating margins continue to be in line with expectations.The group said the accelerated Rubicon integration process, which commenced in January 2009, has made good progress helping to offset the impact of weak Sterling and the associated increases in input costs. Rubicon remains on track to meet targets set at the time of the acquisition."Sales in the latter half of May have benefited from improved weather however they are up against some strong weather driven comparables from last May," said the group."Our increased portfolio coverage and our strong operating focus continues to give us confidence that we will deliver our plans despite the current difficult economic environment," it added.