Irn-Bru maker AG Barr savours £50 million-plus Fentimans and Frobishers double swoop

A soft drinks maker has added fizz to operations with a £50 million-plus double swoop.

AG Barr has bought Fentimans and Frobishers.

The Irn-Bru maker says the deals will bolster its presence in the “attractive adult soft drinks market” where buyers are increasingly swapping alcohol for fruitier alternatives.

Cumbernauld-headquartered AG Barr has spent £38 million to add ginger beer, lemonade, cola and dandelion and burdock maker Fentimans to its stable, with fruit juice firm Frobishers costing £13 million.

Bosses say Fentimans, operating out of Hexham, in Northumberland, and Exeter-based Frobishers will be integrated into AG Barr operations during the rest of the year.

Euan Sutherland, chief executive of AG Barr, which has further bases in London, Bolton and Milton Keynes, said: “In line with our strategy of enhancing our organic growth with mergers and acquisitions, we are delighted to welcome Fentimans and Frobishers.

“These acquisitions are expected to drive meaningful accretion over the medium term.”

The deals were unveiled as AG Barr reported its financial performance for the year to January 31, which showed revenue increased four per cent to £437 million.

Officials say the progress was supported by “good performances” from its Rubicon sparkling fruit juice range and Boost energy brand, as well as “modest” Irn-Bru growth in the latter part of the year, leaving it primed to “build momentum” during the 2026/2027 financial year.

Euan added: “We are pleased to report a strong year that highlights delivery of our strategic priorities.

“Our top and bottom line performance is in line with expectations, and we have laid strong foundations for future growth. 

“We enter the 2026/2027 financial year with good momentum in our core brands, and from the introduction of exciting new products.”

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