We are proud to announce that we have been honoured with a prestigious award in the Business Expansion category at the 2024 Just Drinks Excellence Awards, in recognition of the company’s significant market presence growth, sales improvement, and robust financial performance.
The cornerstone of Global Brands’ award-winning expansion is our export-centric business model, which has been diversified to include a wide range of products such as premium soft drinks, traditional Ready-to-Drink (RTD) beverages, canned cocktails, spirits, and beer. Our export volumes have doubled since 2021, with a strategic plan to generate 25-30% of total sales from exports in the next five years. The success of the Mexican-inspired Amigos beer exemplifies our commitment to offering a varied portfolio to international markets.
We have not only increased our presence in existing markets but have also penetrated new territories, including Georgia, Kosovo, Albania, Brazil, Chile, the British Virgin Islands, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. The establishment of a subsidiary importation company in the US in 2020 marked a significant investment to launch Franklin & Sons in the American market, further contributing to the our export volumes. In the UK on-trade sector, Franklin & Sons has achieved remarkable success, becoming the second-largest premium tonic brand with a value of £13.8m, driven by the innovative dual-flavoured sodas and tonics, along with a core selection of tonic waters.
Despite facing challenges such as BREXIT, the ongoing war in Ukraine, increased exporting costs, and fluctuating raw material prices, Global Brands has demonstrated resilience and strategic agility. Our revenues from international trade reached £5.3m in 2022, accounting for 6% of turnover, and the workforce expanded by 96% between September 2021 and October 2023. Overseas sales surged by 49% in the last two years and an impressive 152% over the past six years.
Global Brands’ recognition at the Just Drinks Excellence Awards is a testament to our strategic foresight and adeptness in navigating the complexities of international trade, solidifying its position as a leader in the beverage industry.