'Experimental' Brits splash the cash on premium

The average Brit is more likely than ever to load their trolley full of premium products. This is reflected by the growth of the specialty products such as hand-made, origin specific food, drink and personal care products. The growing taste for luxury is set to become more pronounced as consumers continue to experiment, self-reward and seek out satisfying experiences.

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2006 "Build a Better Mousetrap" New Product Innovations of the Year

Non-alcoholic beer for dogs, hot dogs made with salmon, cappuccino-flavored cider and light beer fortified with vitamins were some of the more unusual new product innovations reported in 2006 by Datamonitor's Productscan Online database of new products.

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Abbey National: missing ingredient not found in coffee

Abbey National [ANL.L] was the first major bank to provide coffee shops in some of its branches. However, encouraging customers to spend longer in the bank hasn't actually increased sales. It might be time for banks to stop looking for new ways to make their branches attractive and start refocusing on the basics.

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Actimel: ads banned after watchdog finds it hard to swallow

The Advertising Standards Authority has banned an Actimel advert from British TV after five people complained it contained misleading health claims. The ban highlights the fine line manufacturers have to tread when marketing non-specific health claims, and could mark the beginning of a backlash against food science claims in general.

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AG Barr: diversifying its portfolio has proven fruitful

AG Barr has made the biggest purchase in its history through the acquisition of Rubicon, continuing its diversification away from fizzy drinks into stronger growth sectors. The company's move into juices and other healthy beverage sectors is wise: as consumers demand healthier beverages to fit in with healthier lifestyles, these sectors continue to display better growth potential than carbonates.

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AG Barr: health trend will determine whether it keeps its fizz

AG Barr's restructuring will see operations from six Scottish locations combined into an existing site in Cumbernauld to save GBP2.5 million a year. The announcement comes at a time when the group's performance provides reason for optimism with core brands performing well. However, future prospects will undoubtedly be influenced by consumers' rising interest in healthy living.

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AG Barr: profits fizz

Soft drink company AG Barr has reported strong sales for the six months ended July. These results came despite sluggish growth in the market, and a dip in sales of the company's energy drink brand Irn Bru 32. With the company recently announcing a franchise agreement with US-based Rockstar for the UK distribution of its energy drinks, the company has reason to be optimistic about future growth.

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AG Barr: strong growth in 2009/10 sales gives hope to firms in the industry

AG Barr expects sales for 2009/10 to reach GBP220m, with profits also set to increase. The group has performed well despite difficult conditions in a category that continues to be maligned due to health concerns. Soft drinks remain affordable and occasional treats in the eyes of consumers, and this success further shows that companies in the sector can still prosper during recession.

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Alchoholic drinks: fast growth in youngest age group

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Alcoholic beverages: UK young adult consumption will exceed three billion liters in 2004

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