We are delighted with the recent announcement from Lucozade Ribena Suntory (LRS) that they are committed to encouraging healthier lifestyles and that they are launching a new health and wellbeing plan for the UK and Ireland.
The plan focuses on four main areas: healthier drinks, consumer communication, getting the UK taking more exercise and workplace health. Those who know Excel Vending will be aware that this is much in line with our own values and that we have for a long time promoted healthier choices in our vending machines.
Starting from June 2017, all existing and new Lucozade Ribena Suntory drinks containing added sugar will have less than 4.5g of total sugar per 100ml (that’s approximately a teaspoon) – and zero and low calorie alternatives will be available for each brand. In total, LRS will reduce the average sugar content of its portfolio by 50%.
The health & wellbeing plan also includes action on labelling. LRS will clearly display calories on front of pack to help consumers to make informed choices, and any new added sugar drinks launched by the company will have less than 4.5g total sugar per 100ml.
We are also delighted that LRS are also committing financial support to back-up their ambitious plans to get the nation into exercising; LRS is spending £30 million over the next three years and part of the investment will support disadvantaged groups to access sport through its charity partners, and it will also extend to all employees of LRS.
Peter Harding, Chief Operating Officer at Lucozade Ribena Suntory, comments: “Today’s announcement is a game-changer for our business and for those people who love and enjoy our drinks. The world has changed with consumers now wanting healthier drinks and more action from the brands they regularly enjoy. We believe our decision to radically reduce sugar by 50 percent in Ribena, Lucozade and Orangina, while still delivering a fantastic taste, is a great moment for our company, our loyal consumers and for the wider food and drink industry. I’m also excited to reaffirm our passion for inspiring people to move more with our multi-million pound investment over the next three years.”
We welcome the news from Lucozade Ribena Suntory and we congratulate them on te launch of their health and wellbeing plan, we look forward to bringing you their new healthier product range next year.
