This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Minister toasts Irn Bru's Russian success
26/06/2006
Irn Bru's success in Russia is set to go from strength to strength with the signing of a new six-year bottling deal between Barr Soft Drinks and the Russian-based Pepsi Bottling Group (PBG).
On the first ever visit to Russia by a Scottish Government Minister, Mr Stephen found that 'Scotland's other national drink' was a firm favourite with Muscovites cooling off in the summer sunshine.
Welcoming the news on a visit to Red Square, Nicol Stephen said:
"It's amazing to see soft drink stalls and shops right here in the centre of Moscow selling Irn-Bru alongside other global soft drink brands.
"Russians tell me that Irn-Bru has become hugely popular in Moscow and many other parts of the country.
"This is a real Scottish success story. Barr's should be congratulated for taking their iconic Scottish product to the international market, and for the progress they are making in Moscow and beyond.
"I was delighted to learn that, eight years after first bringing Irn-Bru to Moscow, Barr have just signed a major new deal with Pepsi Bottling Group of Russia to extend their franchise agreement for a further six years. This will ensure that a growing number of Russians will be able to enjoy the same quality Scottish product that we Scots have been enjoying for generations."
Roger White, CEO of Barr Soft Drinks, is equally upbeat about Irn-Bru's performance in Russia.
He said: "Our partnership with Pepsi Bottling Group in Russia continues to develop strongly, as evidenced by the recent signing of this new six year deal.
"Irn-Bru is now firmly established as one of the leading brands in the country with a healthy market share and very high levels of awareness.
"Russia will continue to play a key role in our international development and we would encourage other Scottish companies to look closely at the potential in this huge, largely untapped European market".