Twig's Beverage: A Legacy in Returnable Glass Bottles

Keeping Tradition Alive

In a world where single-use plastics dominate the beverage industry, Twig's Beverage from Shawano County, Wisconsin, is a refreshing anomaly. Founded in 1951, this family-owned soda company has steadfastly adhered to the tradition of selling its drinks in returnable glass bottles, a practice that evokes a sense of nostalgia for many and reinforces their commitment to a sustainable future.

The Journey of Twig's Beverage

The roots of Twig's Beverage trace back to Floyd Hartwig, who started the company while recuperating in a Tokyo hospital after serving in the Korean War. It was amidst the post-World War II economic prosperity that he recognized the booming potential of the soft drink industry, where consumer preferences began shifting towards bottled beverages in lieu of soda fountains.

"The key to Twig's longevity is our passion for the brand and the community itself. The people who come in week after week, and stayed loyal, are the reason we've been successful," says Ben Hartwig, the current vice president of Twig's.

Returnable Bottles: A Model of Sustainability

While Americans purchase approximately 127 billion plastic bottles annually, Twig's continues to offer their signature product, Sun Drop, in sturdy returnable glass bottles. This decision is not just a business model but a bedrock principle. Customers pay a $20 deposit per case of 24 bottles, which are continuously washed, refilled, and reused.

• Twig's is one of the last manufacturers in the U.S. to still use returnable glass bottles.
• It stands out by using real sugar, rather than high fructose corn syrup.
• The company also produces a variety of fruit sodas, from root beer to lime, maintaining its commitment to quality.

A Deep Rooted Community Connection

Twig's is not just a beverage provider; it's a vital part of the community fabric in Shawano—a town with a population just over 9,000. The company's annual Sun Drop Dayz event, combining fun and fundraising since 2017, further cements its place in locals' hearts.

The Challenges Ahead

However, running a business focused on sustainability comes with its hurdles. The rising cost of sugar and other ingredients poses an ongoing challenge. "We are always looking at ways to avoid increasing our prices. A lot of our suppliers have become friends over the years, making tough decisions even harder," explains Ben Hartwig.

Looking Towards the Future

Despite these challenges, Twig's is optimistic. With plans to expand its own brand of sodas while maintaining the integrity of their traditional model, the company seeks to invite new customers into the fold while ensuring that the beloved legacy of returnable bottles continues.

Conclusion

Twig's Beverage is more than a soft drink producer; it's a nostalgia-fueled experience that diminishes the environmental footprint typically associated with beverage consumption. Through their focused commitment to sustainability, quality, and community, Twig's stands as a beacon of how family-owned businesses can adapt and thrive even in challenging economic times. With a promise to keep traditions alive, the legacy of Twig's is poised to inspire future generations.