CCSB in drink link with Trebor Bassett

Coca-Cola Schweppes Beverages has teamed up with Trebor Bassett to test market soft drink spin-offs of sweet brands.

Drinks based on Trebor Bassett’s Jelly Babies, Sherbert Fountain, Black Jack, Fruit Salad and Refreshers went into 780 Woolworth stores this week.

The retail chain will carry out a 12-week trial. CCSB then intends to roll them out at other retail stores.

The range may also be extended to other brands, such as Liquorice Allsorts. Trebor Bassett marketing director Bruce Burnett says the company views the drinks spin-offs as “a very exciting opportunity. It will maximise the brand.”

Only one of the brands, Barratt Refreshers, is available in a sugar-free version. Despite this, Burnett describes the children’s sweet range as “quite healthy”.

CCSB says that, although the sweets-based drinks are sugary, they will not be harmful to children. “Soft drinks are a reliable source of fluid and sugar, which are vital ingredients in a daily diet, particularly for children,” says the company. The sugar content of the drinks is in line with EC food regulations, CCSB adds.