Exhibit 99.1
National Beverage Corp. Brand Growth Boosts Earnings
FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 22, 2003--National
Beverage Corp. (AMEX:FIZ) today announced sales of $500.4 million and
earnings of $17.6 million, or $.96 per share, for the fiscal year
ended May 3, 2003. For the prior year, sales were $502.8 million, with
earnings of $16.6 million or $.91 per share.
"The Company had previously reported that during fiscal year 2002
and the beginning of fiscal year 2003, it had 'walked away' from
certain allied brand sales and would replace these revenues with its
core brands...and we are proud to report that we accomplished
this," stated a Company spokesperson.
"Our fiscal year 2004 begins with a spirit of anticipation unlike
any before. We have completed our metamorphosis into a
development/marketing soft drink company," stated Nick A. Caporella,
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, at a recent management function.
"Our flavors - our brands - our innovative development skills and our
flavor/variety dominance has positioned us to realize superior brand
growth. We are maximizing 'Regional Share Dynamics' using target
demographics and segregating with unique products - such as 'Shasta
Shortz' (children) and 'Frutika' (Hispanic)," he continued.
"Team National is compared to an athlete...coiled to release
potent energy. Our Company, with its uniqueness and financial
strength, is now positioned to unleash its potential," Caporella
concluded.
National Beverage produces soft drinks, bottled waters, juices and
juice products and is highly recognized for a line of refreshing
flavors through its popular brands: Shasta(R), Faygo(R), Ritz(R),
Everfresh(R), Mr. Pure(R) and LaCroix(R).
Fun & Flavor...the National Beverage Way
National Beverage Corp.
Consolidated Results for the Fiscal Year Ended
May 3, 2003 and April 27, 2002
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Fiscal Year Ended
------------------
May 3, April 27,
2003 2002
--------- ----------
Net Sales $500,430 $502,778
========== ==========
Net Income $17,589 $16,552
========== ==========
Net Income Per Share:
Basic $.96 $.91
========== ==========
Diluted $.92 $.87
========== ==========
Average Common Shares Outstanding:
Basic 18,400 18,212
========== ==========
Diluted 19,060 18,992
========== ==========
This press release includes forward-looking statements within the
meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such
forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks,
uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results,
performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different
from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or
implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include
fluctuations in costs, changes in consumer preferences and other items
described in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings
and the Company undertakes no obligation to update the forward-looking
statements.
CONTACT: National Beverage Corp., Fort Lauderdale
Grace A. Keene, 954/581-0922