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The Story Behind Britvic

5 minutes

In the landscape of iconic beverage brands, Britvic stands tall. With its pillars of innovation and resilience, it remains committed to quenching the thirst of millions. Established in 1938, Britvic has woven a rich tapestry of flavours and experiences, making it synonymous with refreshment in the UK and beyond.

The Early Years

Britvic’s journey began when an entrepreneurial British chemist, Mr H D Rawlings, started to create homemade soft drinks for his shop in Chelmsford, Essex. He wanted to deliver an affordable source of vitamins to people enduring the Great Depression. Originally called the British Vitamin Product company, the name was shortened to Britvic with the ambition of becoming a beloved household name.

Driving innovation

In 1949, Britvic introduced its iconic orange squash; an instant hit that captured the hearts and palates of consumers. With its distinctive taste and vibrant colour, Britvic Orange Squash became a staple in British households, marking the beginning of Britvic's ascent to beverage royalty.

Throughout the decades, Britvic continued to innovate, introducing new flavours and product lines that catered to evolving consumer preferences. From classic favourites like Robinson Squash to beloved brands like Tango and J2O, Britvic has expanded its portfolio to offer something for everyone.

Weathering Challenges

As with any long-standing enterprise, Britvic has faced its share of challenges, from economic downturns to changing markets. Nevertheless, with strategic foresight and a steadfast commitment to quality, Britvic has navigated these obstacles with resilience, emerging stronger each time.

Sustainability

Britvic has always been deeply committed to sustainability and social responsibility. From reducing its carbon footprint to supporting local communities, Britvic strives to make a positive impact on both the environment and society at large.

Their “Healthier Planet Strategy” focuses on four key areas where they believe they can make the most impact. Packaging, carbon, water & biodiversity. They recently signed a power purchase for a new solar power installation. As of January 2024, it is capable of powering 75% of Britvic’s current operations in Great Britain with clean energy. 

Looking Ahead

Today, Britvic's reach extends far beyond the UK, with its products enjoyed by millions of people, in over 50 countries worldwide. Whether it's a refreshing glass of Pepsi or a zesty bottle of Fruit Shoot, Britvic's diverse portfolio continues to delight consumers across the globe.

In 2020, Britvic acquired Aqua Libra, an innovative company specialising in state-of-the-art tap technology.  This widened their offer beyond bottle choices. In 2021, Britvic expanded their portfolio again with the acquisition of Plenish, a plant-based, organic drinks range. In 2023, Jimmy's Iced Coffee, the UK's fastest growing ‘ready to drink’ iced coffee brand was the latest to join the group.

As Britvic looks ahead to the future, its commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability remains. With a finger on the pulse of consumer trends and dedication to excellence, Britvic is poised to continue shaping the beverage industry for generations to come.

In the annals of beverage history, Britvic's story shines brightly as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance in the pursuit of refreshment. From humble beginnings to global acclaim, Britvic's enduring appeal demonstrates the boundless potential of British ingenuity, and great-tasting drinks. Cheers to Britvic, the refreshing taste of tradition and innovation.

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