The proposed merger of drinks giants AG Barr and Britvic took a major step forward on Tuesday when investors backed the deal.
All resolutions put to a general meeting of Cumbernauld-based Barr’s shareholders were passed.
Two meetings involving Britvic investors were held where the proposed merger was also given the green light.
The £1.4 billion amalgamation, which would create one of Europe’s largest drinks firms, could be completed by the end of this month, although it remains conditional on clearance from the Office of Fair Trading and completion of certain court proceedings.
The merger was first mooted in September.
If completed as expected it will bring together a portfolio of major drinks brands including the Forfar-based Strathmore Springs water operation, Irn-Bru, Tango, Robinsons and Fruit Shoot.
The proposed merger would see Britvic shareholders own 63% of the combined business while Barr investors would hold the remaining 37% of the enlarged group’s share capital.
Barr chief executive Roger White is expected to become chief executive officer of the combined group.
The Scottish drink producer’s chairman Ronnie Hanna will take up the role of deputy chairman in the new organisation.