News: The drinks are on Beatson Clark

Rotherham glass manufacturer Beatson Clark has been selected by leading drinks producer Intercontinental Brands Ltd as it launches additional and exciting products to its iconic St Helier range.

Intercontinental Brands Ltd (ICB) successfully launched its distinctive St Helier Pear Cider drink in 2007 utilising 500ml and 1 litre beer bottles which were designed and manufactured by Beatson Clark. The amber glass containers were designed during a joint venture and benefitted from different closure systems.

ICB is now launching two new varieties in the 500ml capacity – a cherry flavoured pear cider extending the popular fruit flavoured cider range and a pre-mixed lager shandy, aimed at adults who require drinks at the lower end of the abv spectrum. Also new to the market by ICB is Tesco's pre-mixed cocktails in three flavours; Cococabana and Pineapple, Jeeves and Lemonade, and Savanna and Lemonade. This product will utilise the 1 litre version of the bottle and will be presented for sale fully sleeved.

Mike Carthy, Operations Director at ICB said: "The increase in demand for unusual drinks does not seem to be diminishing, and, as a premier drinks manufacturer our packaging and branding is of high importance. Beatson Clark has once again delivered in terms of product innovation, production quality and delivery, ensuring their continued support of our core business requirements."

The Greasborough Road firm also helped Halewood International test the market for its new Crabbies alcoholic ginger beer.

Crabbies, which was launched at the end of last year, was propelled to iconic status as a desirable alcoholic drink, with sales exceeding all expectations. However thanks to its flexibility in production, Beatson Clark was able to respond and ensure a constant supply.

"The service we have received from Beatson Clark over the last year has been excellent," commented Ian Duffy, Purchasing Director Halewood International. "They were able to supply us with a quality standard 500ml amber ale bottle to test the market for our new Crabbies brand, and reacted quickly and efficiently when demand increased, proving they are a supplier who you can rely on and one who really can react to changing market."

Following on from this success, when retailers wanted a smaller bottle to market in a multi pack, Beatson Clark was also able to step in with its standard 330ml beer bottle.

Halewood International is now launching a new adult soft drink in the same Beatson Clark 500ml amber ale bottle. "Iron Press" is targeted primarily at men who require a soft drink but in a traditional masculine package.

Beatson Clark website

Images: icbrands.co.uk / crabbiesgingerbeer.co.uk