Cott Corporation's Board Of Directors Extends Weise's Contract As President And Chief Executive.

Business Editors

TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 25, 2001

As Cott Corporation (NASDAQ:COTT) (TSE:BCB) begins its fourth year of a successful turnaround, its board of directors has announced that Frank E. Weise, president and chief executive officer, has agreed to a contract extension through June 2003.

According to Cott non-executive chairman Serge Gouin, "Frank's superb record of achievements has won the respect of the entire industry. Our shareowners, customers and employees have all cheered Frank's leadership as he steered our company from what had been an uncertain financial position to a series of 10 straight profitable quarters. We are delighted that he will be at helm for at least two more years."

Joining in expressing positive support was David V. Harkins, a member of the board and president of Thomas H. Lee Partners L.P., Cott's single largest shareowner. "Frank's winning attitude has made a difference throughout his three years as Cott's chief executive. His enthusiasm has been contagious among the excellent management team he has assembled to lead the Company."

In thanking the board for its confidence, Weise said, "From the first days of calling on the men and women of Cott to propel us toward positive performance, right through today, I am proud to be leading this team of 2,300 winners. Now, as we set our sights on new goals - moving from turnaround to a growth strategy -we have the skills, financial horsepower and above all, determination to make it happen. At Cott, our journey is still taking shape."

Prior to joining Cott in June 1998, Weise was chairman of the board of Confab Inc. a leading manufacturer of retailer branded feminine hygiene, incontinent and baby diaper products. He also held executive positions at both Campbell Soup Company and Procter & Gamble. He holds bachelors and masters degrees from Lehigh University.

About Cott Corporation

Cott Corporation is the world's largest retailer brand soft drink supplier, with the leading take home carbonated soft drink market shares in this segment in its core markets of the U.S., Canada and the U.K.

Safe Harbor Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements reflecting management's current expectations regarding future results of operations, economic performance, financial condition and achievements of the Company. Forward-looking statements, specifically those concerning future performance, are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties are detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with the appropriate securities commissions, and include, without limitation, stability of procurement costs for raw and packaging materials, competitive activities by national, regional and retailer brand beverage manufacturers, the Company's ability to integrate acquired business into its operations, fluctuations in currency versus the U.S. dollar, the uncertainties of litigation, and retailers' continued commitment to their retailer brand beverage programs. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive.