Revenues still rose 8.5% to £247.4m in first half despite disruption
AG Barr, the Cumbernauld-based maker of Irn-Bru and Rubicon, reported that supply chain issues constrained sales growth in the first half of 2026, leading to an estimated loss of around £10 million in revenue. The company stated that stock availability and customer service have normalised over the second half of the year.
The drinks manufacturer attributed the disruption to deliveries and reduced product availability partly to internal issues linked to its “capability and capacity change programme” and partly to external problems from third-party manufacturing. AG Barr expressed confidence in having a “strong, stable and more efficient supply chain for the second half and beyond” following the completion of most of its Cumbernauld operational change programme and progress on its Milton Keynes manufacturing upgrade.
Despite these challenges, AG Barr reported an 8.5% increase in total revenues, reaching £247.4 million for the six months to August 1. Adjusted pre-tax profits for the half-year rose by 2.6% to £36.1 million compared to the same period a year earlier.
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The company noted that growth was boosted by its recent acquisitions of the Fentimans and Frobishers drinks brands. The successful integration of these brands helped to offset the impact of investments into its operations and cost inflation linked to the Middle East, which was “not fully passed on to customers”.
Euan Sutherland, chief executive of AG Barr, commented: “We made strong progress against our strategic priorities during the first half of the year, with continued momentum across our brands and strong execution against our strategic growth drivers. Despite supply constraints impacting customer service in the peak summer months, our core brand portfolio performed well in the market, supported by successful rebrands, innovation and marketing. Our recent acquisitions have expanded our addressable market and investment in our manufacturing capabilities continues to significantly strengthen the business for the long term.”
