Addleshaw Goddard has taken a key role on Britvic's distribution agreement with new Indian partner Narang Group, in a deal that marks the soft drinks company's first foray into India.

The deal involves the India sales and distribution of Britvic's Fruit Shoot drink product and is due to get underway next year. 

Britvic, the producer of popular brands such as Robinsons squash, R White's Lemonade and Tango, expects to set up a 10-strong team in India to work on the deal. 

Addleshaws acted for Britvic on the negotiations with a team led by corporate finance partner Mike Duggan and Clare Thomas, who heads the firm's food and drink practice. 

India's Khaitan & Co also advised Britvic, with private equity partner Vaishali Sharma leading the firm's efforts, while Narang was advised by Anand Desai, the managing partner of Mumbai-based firm DSK Legal.

Duggan said: "We are pleased to have been able to support Britvic on this strategic project, which will see another leading UK brand becoming available across India. Over the past 10 years, our India business group has provided practical advice and support to our clients looking to the Indian market to support their strategies. For many businesses, expansion into India represents an exciting but challenging opportunity."

Addleshaws has recently taken major steps into the Asia and Middle East markets with the launch of offices in Singapore, Qatar, Dubai and Oman, with a move into Hong Kong also imminent.

Other firms to have advised Britvic in the past include Linklaters, which is currently advising on the company's proposed merger with AG Barr, maker of fizzy drink Irn-Bru, and also led on its £800m float in 2005.