More time for Britvic/AG Barr merger talks

Britvic and AG Barr have been given a second extension by the Takeover Panel to decide on their £1.4bn merger.

The deadline for the companies to table a firm bid or end talks has been extended to 28 November. It was originally to expire yesterday.

Statements from the two companies said they had made "substantial progress" and that the discussions were ongoing and at an advanced stage.