Lucozade issues update in response to concerns about shortages

Lucozade has issued a new statement in response to concerns that there could be a shortage this summer. Alpesh Mistry, Sales Director, Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I: “Lucozade fans need not panic this summer.

“We continue to produce our best-loved Lucozade flavors in Energy and Sport – which account for almost 90% of Lucozade sales. Production was only temporarily halted, but our lines have since been up and running and we are working hard to ensure people continue to get the drinks they love, when they want this summer.”

The statement comes after retailers said their stocks of Lucozade could start to run out next month. The main factory in Coleford, Gloucestershire – which produces one billion bottles of the sports drink a year – was closed in April after a 50-year-old worker died.

Production was halted on 31 lines, including the brand’s new popular drink Blucozade. In emails seen by trade journal RN, manufacturer Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I (SBF GB&I) warned retailers to expect gaps on shelves. Promotional activity has been halted due to stock shortages, the magazine reported.

While cash-and-carry stocks are said to be currently healthy, some lines are expected to be completely sold out by June. Dee Bee Wholesale sales director Kevin Kirkbride told RN: “Lucozade is a massive seller for us and our stores and we probably have about two to three weeks of stock left.

“It will affect sales. Our buyer is currently looking at alternatives, but a replacement has not yet been determined.

“The other problem is that other wholesalers will also look for alternatives to fill the gap.” A spreadsheet from SBF GB&I to wholesalers, seen by RN, shows its new Blucozade products will be the last lines to go back into production, with an estimated return date of September.

Carol Robert, Chief Operating Officer, Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I said: “A serious incident occurred in our warehouse at our Coleford manufacturing site on 22 April. We are deeply saddened to confirm that this has resulted in the loss of a colleague. who died in hospital on April 25.

“We are in close communication with the employee’s family and the entire business sends our sincere condolences at this extremely difficult time. We are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation by the regulator. Given that this is a very real investigation, it would not be appropriate to comment further.

“Our thoughts remain with our colleague’s family and we would also ask that their privacy be respected at this time.”