Coca-Cola Europacific Partners expands Fanta Zero range, takes over Billson’s Beverages

UK – Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) has expanded its Fanta brand portfolio with the launch of Fanta Zero Apple, Fanta Zero Raspberry, and a limited-edition Fanta Tutti Frutti Zero Sugar.  

The new Fanta Zero Apple and Fanta Zero Raspberry will be available in stores from February 24 in 330ml cans and 500ml rPET bottles for consumers looking for an on-the-go option, as well as in larger 2L rPET bottles and multipacks for home consumption. 

Fanta Tutti Frutti Zero Sugar, set to launch in mid-March, will be a limited-edition offering featuring a vibrant mix of peach, pineapple, and banana flavors.  

Packaged in a sleek can with an eye-catching design, the product aims to evoke nostalgia and excitement among consumers.  

All three launches will be supported by a multi-million-pound marketing campaign, incorporating influencer partnerships, out-of-home advertising, social media engagement, and experiential events. 

Rob Yeomans, Vice-President of Commercial Development at CCEP GB, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating that the new Fanta Zero Apple and Fanta Zero Raspberry flavors cater to growing consumer demand for apple and raspberry-flavored beverages.  

He added that the limited-edition Tutti Frutti Zero Sugar is designed to create excitement and conversation around the Fanta brand while driving sales through an engaging, nostalgia-inspired experience. 

In addition to expanding its Fanta Zero range, CCEP has taken over the sales and distribution of Billson’s Beverages’ ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages.  

The Coca-Cola Company acquired Billson’s Beverages late last year after the family-owned Australian company went into voluntary administration in July 2024.  

Billson’s had been in operation for seven years but faced significant financial struggles, leading to two restructures and a workforce reduction of 100 employees before ultimately entering administration. 

Mitchell Lenaghan, General Manager at CCEP, commented on the acquisition, highlighting that while the company’s portfolio will evolve, its commitment to customers remains unchanged.  

He emphasized that CCEP will leverage its expertise in category management and manufacturing excellence to solidify its position in the beverage market for years to come. 

For the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2024, CCEP reported a 5 percent increase in sales, driven by strong demand for higher-priced beverages in Australia, the Pacific, and Southeast Asia.  

While these regions saw a 1.7 percent increase in volume, European volumes declined by 2.6 percent following the discontinuation of Capri Sun products due to expiring distribution agreements. 

Despite the revenue growth, CCEP’s annual profit declined from €1.67 billion in the previous year to €1.42 billion.  

Following the financial results, the company announced a €1 billion share buyback program over the next 12 months.  

Looking ahead to fiscal year 2025, CCEP projects a 4 percent revenue increase on an adjusted, comparable, and currency-neutral basis, alongside a 7 percent growth in operating profit. 

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