Grace Kennedy Limited will implement an average price increase of nine per cent on non-alcoholic beverages come Friday. 

In a customer notice, the company said the increase applies to general trade customers – primarily small, independent and traditional retail outlets. 

It also noted that the price adjustment covers other products affected by cost increases. 

The company said that the adjustment has become necessary due to the Government’s introduction of the Special Consumption Tax on sugary drinks. 

Grace Kennedy said that as a result, it is unable to absorb the costs at this time.