Sunderland drinks firm eyes national growth after 50 per cent headcount increase

A Sunderland soft drinks manufacturer is aiming to achieve success on a national scale following a period of significant growth.

Over the past 12 months, Clearly Drinks has increased revenue by one fifth and increased its employee headcount by 50 per cent.

Established in 1885, Clearly Drinks specialises in flavoured water, providing products for the likes of Hartridges, Get More Drinks and Sainsburys private label.

The firm, which is based in Southwick, has created 37 new roles in the last year as well as increasing staff numbers, bringing the firm’s total headcount to 113.

As a result of the growth, the firm has been able to increase production by 25 per cent, and is now setting its sights on becoming a major player in the UK soft drinks market.

Mick Howard, who joined Clearly Drinks as COO in March 2018 before moving into his current position of CEO in January 2019, commented: “It’s an extremely exciting time for Clearly Drinks and we’re looking forward to continue to grow on a national scale over the coming months.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that we are constantly innovating to meet the needs of our customers and we have spent that last twelve months investing in the wealth of local talent and expertise as well as developing our new and existing brands.”