Diageo is bringing its famous Guinness toucan back this spring with the launch of limited-edition cans featuring the image ahead of St Patrick's Day.

The move is part of a £3m investment in the brand leading up to the 17 March celebrations, and would boost sales in what is traditionally a slow time for beer, said the company.

"February and March are two of the slowest months for beer sales in the UK, with just over 12% of volume for the year being sold," said John Roscoe, Guinness brand director.

The toucan cans will be available on Guinness Original four-packs from next week through to St Patrick's Day.

In the grocery sector the company will be running an on-pack competition, offering fans of the black stuff a chance to win the Ultimate Guinness Experience, including a year's supply of Guinness, across its 12, 15 and 18-can packs.

For independent and convenience store retailers Diageo will be providing flags, hats, bunting, balloons and other PoS material to create atmosphere in store and promote a "text-to-win" competition. Exclusive to convenience stores is a 2-for-£7.50 offer across multi-packs of Guinness Draught in cans.

Diageo will also reprise its £10m TV ad for Guinness launched in November.

"This year we are running a number of different offers across all channels, enabling retailers to really make the most of the occasion," said Roscoe.

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