Beverage, appliance makers pad up to meet an expected growing demand

AC manufacturers claim this year there will be 15-20% year-on-year growth

Consumer goods companies are padding up to meet high demand this summer, following the Met department forecast that the season will be hotter and drier than usual this year. 

Makers of beverages (colas, juices, packaged water) as well as producers of soaps, deodorants, cooling oils and talcum powder depend on summer to boost sales. 

So do makers of appliances such as air-conditioners, coolers, refrigerators and fans. Consumer durables makers are grappling with a number of issues this year, such as a hike in customs duty, rising commodity prices, and a falling rupee.  They, however, claim they have prepared a strong line-up of