News briefs: PepsiAmericas, Adnams and InnoBev US
developments in emerging markets, Adnams launches a green beer in
the UK, and InnoBev US forum plans to open its doors.
CEE volume growth pushes up Pepsi profits Strong performance in Central and East European (CEE) markets drove up profit for PepsiAmericas in its first quarter of 2008, said the company.
The international drinks company reported a net income of $24.7m (€15.7m), up from $20.6m (€13.1m) in the first quarter of 2007 with revenue increased by 14 per cent including acquisitions.
"Central and Eastern Europe continued to drive our growth, reflecting the significant opportunities in these developing and emerging beverage markets," said chairman and CEO Robert Pohlad.
"Strong execution of our brand and channel initiatives drove European volumes up double digits, reflecting growth across all categories."
Worldwide, revenue increased 14 per cent to $1.1bn (€699m), with acquisitions contributing to 8 percentage points.
Overall volume improved by 12.7 per cent, driven by volume growth of 61.8 percent in CEE markets.
Operating income increased by $14.9m (€9.5m), a massive $13.9m (€8.8m) improvement over the previous year because of acquisitions, currency benefits and strong operational performance, according to the company.
Meanwhile, overall volume declined 1 per cent in the US, with carbonated soft drinks volume also declining 1 per cent.
Green beer launched in the UK British brewer Adnams has launched what it claims to be UK's first carbon-neutral beer.
The group said its new 4.3 per cent ABV beer carries less than 1p worth of carbon emissions per bottle is reported to be 25 per cent less carbon intensive to produce than other beers.
Adnams has initiated other innovative ideas for reducing its carbon footprint, including creating one of the lightest beer bottles on the UK beer market so far.
Its 500ml beer bottle weighed in at 299g, making it around a third lighter than previous efforts and cutting Adnams' carbon emissions, or 'footprint', by 415 tonnes per year.
And last year, its solar panels, a roof made of plants and its pledge to become carbon neutral helped it to claim a top prize in the Carbon Trust Innovation Awards 2007.
US drinks event focuses on innovation and investment The first ever InnoBev US forum will take place in New York this June, looking specifically at helping companies grow their business through innovation and investment.
It is being presented by a partnership between beverage consultancy Zenith International and BevNet.com, a North American beverage publishing company, and is designed for independent markets in the non-alcoholic beverages industry.
"This is tailored to the companies that are introducing new and innovative beverages to the market," said John Craven, president of BevNet.com.
There will also be market reports on the state of the industry.
Emerging beverage growth opportunities in flavoured waters, smoothies, energy and sports drinks and enhanced and nutraceutical beverages are areas that will be particularly focused on.
Also, the forum will discuss major consumer trends identified by the industry, including health and wellness, origin and local produce, premium products, better for you, green products and convenience.