Hall & Woodhouse has announced today it has sold its Panda brand and Popzone range to soft drinks company Nichols.

Sales and marketing of the Panda brand and Popzone range will now be the sole responsibility of the Vimto Soft Drinks Division of Nichols. The Rio brand will remain with the Hall & Woodhouse portfolio as part of the company’s premium drinks in both retail and on-trade.

David Woodhouse, group managing director of Hall & Woodhouse, said: “The sale of the Panda brand is a logical move given our earlier decision to exit soft drinks production, and frees up funds to invest in growing Hall & Woodhouse beer brands and our pubs.”

John Nichols, chairman, Nichols, said: “The purchase of Panda will complement our existing Vimto brand, and enhance our soft drinks portfolio. Panda and Popzone and a number of exciting product innovations are planned.”