Soft drinks consumption in Bulgaria continues to increase, the Bulgarian Soft Drinks Association (BSDA) said. Consumption of soft drinks went up by 32 mln liters, or 11%, in the first quarter of 2008, compared to the corresponding period of 2007.

Bottled waters consumption rose by 12%, 14 mln liters, in the first three months of 2008, compared to the year-ago period. The consumption of natural mineral waters rose by 13%, while the consumption of waters offered in the public sector rose by 7%.

Carbonated drink sales marked a 9-percent year on year increase in the first quarter of 2008. This is an increase of 10 mln liters. The demand for “light” beverages, which registered an 18-percent increase in sales was brisk. The sales of the “soda” type drinks rose by 12%, while the sales of “orange” type drinks marked a 7-percent rise. The share of sales of carbonated drinks in 2.0-liter PET bottles also increased in the first quarter of 2008.

The consumption of non-carbonated drinks with low fruit content and of drinks that come in a powdered form rose by 6%. The number of companies offering products with fruit content, as well as drinks with added vitamins and fruit beverages for children is growing.

The demand for natural fruit juices marked a 17-percent year on year increase in the first quarter of 2008. The increase represents nearly 3 mln liters and may be put down entirely to products manufactured domestically.

The consumption of soft drinks of the “ice tea” and “energy & sports” types went up by 34% and 26%, respectively. The wide range of products and the attractive prices of Bulgarian producers sparked the increase in the consumption of soft drinks of these types.

Based on the first quarter results, soft drinks consumption is estimated to reach 1,820 mln liters for the entire 2008. This would also mean that the per capita consumption will grow to 240 liters for 2008, up by 22 liters, compared to 2007.