UK drinks brand Roots Beverage Co has introduced its first range of tonic waters which are sweetened only by organic honey.
The line consists of three variants: Worker Bee, Queen Bee, and Rhu-Bee, which takes natural colour and flavourings from rhubarb.
Roots has also completed its first distribution deal with London-based Bottling UK to begin large volume production of the tonic waters and allow for UK-wide stock distribution.
The brand was founded in 2016 by 25-year-old Jamie Blair who grew up on the Isle of Man before moving to England to study law. After graduating he returned to the island, working in independent bars and restaurants where he developed a passion for locally-sourced, sustainable produce.
In 2016, Jamie completed a beekeepers’ course with the Isle of Man Beekeepers Association and under a mentor started his first hive. Jamie’s curiosity led him to start experimenting with home brewing ginger beer, using honey from the hives on the island as a natural sweetener to create a healthier version of the sugary soft drink.
Roots Beverage Co was incorporated in December 2016 and received investment from Ash Dougal, a local investor who joined the company as a director in September 2016.
The company received a loan from the Isle of Man Enterprise Development Scheme in August 2017 to expand its operations and now supplies its Ginger Bee soft drink and Honey Bee lemonade products to over 30 Isle of Man outlets.
Jamie Blair said: “I wanted to make a brilliant product that made a difference to people’s health, to the future of bees and to our planet. Securing a bottling and distribution partner marks a significant milestone for the company and means we can now make positive steps forward with the Roots brand, introducing new suppliers and stockists to our first range.
“It’s a unique proposition, because as well as wanting to introduce a natural, healthier range of soft drinks and mixers, we also want the business to give back. We reinvest 10% of all profits into bee-related projects to ensure the bee population continues to thrive.”
Ash Dougal added: “That’s what attracted me to invest initially; the ethical nature of the business and its founder, Jamie. The company focuses on improving the environment and supports local communities with various projects, while also producing a healthy soft drink alternative for the consumer, separating itself from the other high-sugar drink products currently on the market.
“The range of tonic waters have been designed to complement a variety of spirits, while having enough of a flavour profile to be enjoyed on their own. We’re now offering like-minded suppliers, wholesalers and their customers the opportunity to share our passion for Roots’ products and message, and we’re keen to talk to anyone who seeks an edge in the premium mixers market.”
The range of tonic waters is now available in both 200ml and 500ml bottle sizes.
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024