Cott moots own beer and food range

The Cott Corporation is considering launching its range of own-label products from food to beer into the UK and Europe.

The Canadian company, which rose to prominence as the manufacturer of the syrups for Sainsbury’s Classic Cola and Virgin Cola, has a string of food and other interests in Canada, which it is seeking to expand in US markets.

Discussions have taken place in Europe but Cott has yet to approach retailers to discuss plans for stocking products, ranging from cookies to beer. But the rapid growth of the company in the UK suggests that it will push ahead with the roll-out of other products quickly.

Cott president David Nichol told shareholders last week that the company was going to expand its non-soft drink interests and launch a series of premium own-label food products in the US. A spokesman for the US said the launches could expand beyond food. Other Cott operations include pet food, household cleaning, beer and juice.

Simon Lester, managing director of Cott Europe, says the group has no immediate plans to expand beyond its core drinks business. “We are considering it, but not actively,” he says.