NICHOLS Dispense has landed a breakthrough contract with Coca-Cola, becoming the first company outside the soft drinks giant itself to supply the brand in draught format to outlets across the UK.
Nichols, which owns the Vimto soft drink brand, will provide equipment, installation, maintenance and technical services as part of the deal.
It already holds an exclusive deal to distribute Irn-Bru in "bag in box" format to outlets around the country.
The Scottish arm of Nichols, the largest independent supplier of soft drinks in the UK, has moved from its depot in Dunblane to a 10,000 square foot premises to allow it to meet the needs of the Coca-Cola contract.
The new site is supported by an existing satellite depot in Aberdeen.
Nichols, which turns over £110 million and employs 170 staff across the UK, said the move is part of its strategy to pursue growth in the "out of home" channel.
That is being supplemented with the appointment of its first trading director, Nick Yates. Formerly of Pernod Ricard, where he held management roles, Nichols is looking to use his 13 years' experience to drive sales of its portfolio pubs, clubs, bars, restaurants and other venues.
In addition to supplying brands such as Coca-Cola, Irn-Bru, Vimto, Sunkist and Ocean Spray, Nichols distributes a range of own-label drinks in draught format.
Mr Yates said: "Nichols Dispense Scotland had a fantastic portfolio with the network and quality service to back it up.
"The deal with Coca-Cola only adds to our credibility as the leading supplier in the market and expansion through a bigger depot enables us to capitalise on the significant opportunities for growth."
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