Irn-Bru owner AG Barr is in advanced talks with a new owner for its closure-threatened Strathmore Water brand.
The future of the famous Forfar bottled water firm, and more than 20 local jobs, came under threat in March.
The company said the West High Street site in the Angus town was “no longer sustainable”.
Locals were shocked by the plans to pull the plug on the brand.
A hint Strathmore could be saved emerged in the wake of the closure announcement.
In a brief stock exchange filing, AG Barr said it had begun discussions with an unnamed third party.
But the firm said there could be “no certainty a transaction will ultimately occur.”
However, The Courier can reveal talks have advanced and AG Barr hopes to strike a deal which could bring fresh investment in the brand.
Talks of future of Strathmore Water staff
An AG Barr spokesperson said: “We are pleased to have found a prospective buyer for Strathmore Water that is committed to protecting jobs and intends to invest in the site to secure its future.
“Both parties are engaged, the deal is progressing.”
The company added: “TUPE consultations are underway and we will continue to support our Strathmore employees through this period of transition.”
The Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) regulations are designed to protect employees’ rights in a business transfer.
TUPE ensures that jobs, terms and conditions, and continuity of employment are safeguarded.
AG Barr, which also makes Rubicon, Boost and Funkin, saw sales rise £20 million last year.
It reported pre-tax profit of £53.2 on sales of £420.4m to January 2025.
But the company said Strathmore had “struggled to compete” in the bottled water market in recent years.
AG Barr acquired the former Strathmore Spring Water business from US owners for £15.5m in 2006.
Famous Forfar firm
At its height, Strathmore’s still and sparkling water was a market leader in the UK’s bars and shops.
It also produced a range of flavoured varieties.
The rich history of the one-time Strathmore Springs plant includes names such as Lamb’s Lemonade, Ferguzade and Gluctoza.
The closure announcement also raised fears over what would become of the prime corner site at Forfar’s West Port.
It is adjacent to the former Angus division police headquarters, which is now empty after officers had to vacate the building on safety grounds.
Conversation