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Dr Pepper/Seven Up Inc. Announces US Soft Drink Volumes +2% for 1998

05 February 1999

Cadbury Schweppes plc today reports on its US soft drinks performance in the fourth quarter and full year 1998. Compared with 1997, the key figures for 1998 are as follows:

* estimated

• Dr Pepper volume grew at 6% throughout the year, significantly ahead of the market. Its share of carbonated soft drinks reached an all time high of 7.1%.
• After an encouraging third quarter, 7 Up volumes in the fourth quarter were adversely affected by intense promotional activity in the market place and a lack of focus in the Pepsi System due to the introduction of Pepsi One.
• A&W Root Beer (+3%) and Sunkist (+15%) grew strongly in the fourth quarter resulting in solid increases for the full year of 2% for A&W and 8% for Sunkist.
• Dr Pepper/Seven Up Inc. ("DPSU") volume growth in the Coke system was strong during the year (+5%), but was affected during the fourth quarter by three less shipping days. Volumes rose by 1% in both the Pepsi and Independent Bottling Systems for the full year, but were adversely impacted by inconsistent bottler performance.
• Fountain volume grew +8% in the quarter, driven by significantly increased distribution in national restaurant chains and local outlets. For 1998 as a whole, fountain volumes grew by 6%.
• Commenting on these results, John Brock, Managing Director of Cadbury Schweppes Beverages stream said, "DPSU had another excellent year. Dr Pepper grew at more than one and half times the market rate for the 14th consecutive year. While 7 Up did not grow, we anticipate improved performance in 1999 on the basis of:
• New positioning: more youth oriented advertising and promotional programmes were introduced in January
• The new agreement with the Pepsi Bottling Group which started on 1st January
• Better execution from a consolidating Independent Bottling System"

Cadbury Schweppes plc: 0207 409 1313 http://www.cadburyschweppes.com

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