AG Barr’s H1 results hit by £10M black hole after inventory error

Irn-Bru cans
The distribution error has dampened a positive set of results for the manufacturer. (Getty Images)

AG Barr has seen around £10 million wiped off its balance sheet due to a distribution error, denting what had been a positive start to the financial year.

The Irn-Bru manufacturer told investors in a trading update this week that “reduced stock availability”, caused by inventory being in the wrong locations, had hit sales by an estimated £10 million.

This issue was attributed to internal supply chain issues linked to the group’s “capability and capacity change programme” and third-party manufacturers.

Despite the setback, AG Barr has registered a positive start to the first half of FY2026, with revenue expected to be around £246 million, an 8% increase year on year.

Although the Cumbernauld-based firm has reaffirmed its full-year profit guidance, its share price has fallen by 6.7%.


Also read → AG Barr looks forward to strong 2026 after major acquisitions

The company added that it expects double-digit percentage revenue growth for the year as a whole, supported by a stronger second half.

Fentimans and Frobishers have now been fully integrated into the business following their high-profile acquisitions earlier this year, while core brands Irn-Bru, Rubicon and Boost continue to perform “strongly”.

Operational efficiencies gained from the integrations are expected to filter through in H2, the company said, adding that its manufacturing investment programme “remains on track and within budget”.

AG Barr chief executive Euan Sutherland said: “Consumer demand for our brands is strong, with all core brands gaining market share.

“The supply constraints which impacted Q2 performance are being resolved and, with strengthening trading momentum driven by our refreshed core brands and new product development, we remain confident for the full year.”