The Family-Owned Soda Firm That Still Uses Returnable Glass Bottles
Keeping Tradition Alive in a Plastic World
Amidst a staggering 127 billion plastic bottles purchased annually in the U.S., one family-owned soda firm in the Midwest is proudly maintaining the age-old tradition of using returnable glass bottles. Twig’s Beverage has made a commitment to sustainability and nostalgia by continuing to sell its renowned product, Sun Drop, in glass bottles.
A Journey Through Tradition
– Historical Roots: For nearly a century, soda bottles in America were designed to be returned. Customers paid a deposit for durable glass bottles, which they could reclaim upon returning them to the store. This practice allowed bottles to be washed and reused multiple times.
– The Shift to Plastic: With the rise of plastic, this eco-friendly system gradually faded into the background. However, Twig’s Beverage has steadfastly held onto this tradition, ensuring their customers can still enjoy beverages in returnable glass.
Twig’s Beverage: A Testament to Family Values
– Local Commitment: In Shawano County, Wisconsin, customers pay a $20 (£15) deposit for a case of 24 returnable glass bottles and can refill them directly at the Twig’s factory in Shawano. Some of these bottles are vintage, still in circulation after 60 years.
– Generational Bonds: We’ve seen families come in for years, shares Ben Hartwig, Twig’s vice-president. Cases get passed down, and the next family member gets to bring them in. That nostalgia is something long-time customers cherish. Bottles manufactured in the 1960s and 70s still find their way through the company’s washing facility, showcasing the enduring quality of glass.
Expansion Plans and Sustainability
– A Legacy of Flavors: Established in 1951 by Floyd Hartwig, Twig’s signature drink, Sun Drop, was born in the 1940s in Missouri. Although owned by Keurig Dr Pepper, Twig’s remains independent, producing Sun Drop under license and exclusively using returnable glass bottles.
– Diverse Offerings: In addition to Sun Drop, Twig’s produces a range of fruit sodas that includes root beer, black cherry, orange, and lime. While sales outside their designated area restrict them from offering Sun Drop beyond local borders, Twig’s is actively working to expand its own range throughout the Midwest, although these newer bottles won’t initially be returnable.
Celebrating 75 Years of Twig’s
– A Unique Origin Story: The company’s history is deeply personal, originating from Floyd Hartwig’s hospital bed in Tokyo during the Korean War. This pivotal moment led him to create a soda-bottling business during a time when the industry was booming.
– Family Leadership: In 1986, Floyd’s son, Dan, took over, ensuring that the business remained in family hands. Today, Twig’s is run by Ben, his wife Annelies, and his brothers, Jake and Luke, employing 20 people and generating around $6.5 million (£4.8 million) in annual revenue.
Community Engagement
– Local Culture: Twig’s is woven into the fabric of Shawano, a close-knit community of just over 9,000 people. The annual Sun Drop Dayz event, featuring live music and activities, has become a beloved local tradition since its inception in 2017. Additionally, visitors can explore Twig’s museum to learn about its rich heritage and observe the soda-making process firsthand.
Challenges and Resilience
– Navigating the Market: Despite fluctuating ingredient costs, especially sugar, Twig’s remains focused on keeping prices stable. We continuously explore ways to manage our costs while maintaining relationships with longtime suppliers, explains Hartwig. It’s a challenge, but our family-oriented approach fosters creative solutions.
Looking Forward
– The Future of Twig’s: Hartwig aspires to pass on the family legacy to his children, emphasizing the importance of tradition and continuity. Our biggest success has been preserving the values we’ve held for 75 years and sharing them with future generations, he says. The loyalty of our customers, who visit week after week, has played a crucial role in our success.
In an industry dominated by major brands, the presence of family-owned soda firms like Twig’s highlights the importance of legacy, quality, and community. As Twig’s paves its path forward, one thing remains clear: this commitment to returnable glass bottles and family traditions will continue to delight loyal customers for years to come.