Soft drinks giant AG Barr, known for brands like Funkin Cocktails and Irn-Bru, has made headlines with its acquisition of UK-based mixer producer Fentimans for £38 million (US$52 million).
The Scottish soft drink company made this announcement during a trading update focusing on its financial performance for 2025-2026. The acquisition was finalized on 2 January 2026.
Alongside this purchase, AG Barr also acquired the fruit juice brand Frobishers for £13 million (US$17.8 million). The company anticipates that both deals will lead to increased efficiencies beginning in the latter half of its financial year.
AG Barr stated: “Both brands are part of the appealing adult soft drinks sector, which is benefitting from the growing trend of reduced alcohol consumption.”
“These acquisitions are strategic moves aimed at expanding our brand portfolio while also creating opportunities for cost synergies.”
Fentimans, located in Northumberland, offers a variety of soft drinks and mixers, including popular options like Ginger Beer and Rose Lemonade. Their tonic offerings feature exciting flavors such as Pink Grapefruit, Valencian Orange, Pink Rhubarb, Oriental Yuzu, and Elderflower & Rose.
For the year concluding on 31 January 2026, AG Barr reported a revenue growth of approximately 4%, reaching £437 million (US$599.4 million).
The company noted that marketing efforts surrounding Irn-Bru contributed to modest growth during the second half of the year, after a flat first half. Strong performances from Rubicon and energy drink Boost helped offset declines in Funkin, which offers cocktail mixers and ready-to-drink beverages.
AG Barr also highlighted a robust pipeline of brand activities for the upcoming year, including redesigns of both Irn-Bru and Rubicon.
Euan Sutherland, AG Barr’s CEO, commented: “We are delighted to report a strong year that reflects our strategic goals. Our financial results for FY25/26 meet expectations and lay a solid foundation for future growth.”
“We are entering FY26/27 with positive momentum from our core brands and the launch of exciting new products.”
However, the mixer category saw a decline in both volume and value in Britain’s grocery channel during the year leading up to November 2025, according to Fentimans’ latest market report.
Last summer, AG Barr completed its acquisition of alcohol-free spirit brand Strykk, founded by Funkin’s creator Alex Carlton in 2018.
In 2015, AG Barr had acquired Funkin for £16.5 million (US$21.6 million).
In other mixer-related M&A news, Fever-Tree sold an 8.5% stake to brewing giant Molson Coors for £71 million (US$88.4 million) last year.
Additionally, the bottling segment of The Coca-Cola Company purchased the premium mixer brand Three Cents in 2022.
In June 2020, a minority stake in UK-based mixer producer Double Dutch was acquired by the Heineken family.
Key Takeaways
- AG Barr has acquired Fentimans for £38 million (US$52 million).
- The acquisition was completed on January 2, 2026.
- Fentimans specializes in a variety of soft drinks and mixers.
- AG Barr anticipates increased efficiencies from its recent acquisitions.
- AG Barr’s revenue grew by about 4% to £437 million (US$599.4 million) for the year ending January 31, 2026.
- Strategic brand activities and product launches are planned for the coming year.
FAQ
What brands does AG Barr own?
AG Barr owns several brands, including Irn-Bru, Funkin Cocktails, and now Fentimans.
What is Fentimans known for?
Fentimans is known for producing a wide range of soft drinks and mixers, including Ginger Beer and various flavored tonics.
When was the acquisition of Fentimans finalized?
The acquisition was finalized on January 2, 2026.
What were AG Barr’s recent financial results?
AG Barr reported approximately 4% revenue growth, reaching £437 million (US$599.4 million) for the year ending January 31, 2026.
What trends are influencing the adult soft drinks market?
The adult soft drinks market is benefiting from a rising consumer trend toward reduced alcohol consumption.
In summary, AG Barr’s strategic acquisition of Fentimans aligns with its growth objectives in the evolving beverage market. With strong brand activities on the horizon, the company is well-positioned for future success.
