The Sunnyside Story: Born from Necessity, Crafted with Integrity
After 12 incredible years living in Australia, I returned to the UK with one thing on my mind: the refreshing, fresh-pressed alcoholic ginger beer I’d grown to love. But the reality back home was a wake-up call.
As someone who is strictly gluten-free and manages chronic inflammation, I’ve always felt the lack of options at the pub. I was tired of being the "odd one out" with a sugary cider or a soda filled with "liquid lab" additives. I wanted an alcoholic drink that was healthier on the stomach, body, and mind—something made with integrity that wouldn't leave me feeling rubbish the next day.
When I looked at the market, I saw a massive gap for a great-tasting, all-natural ginger beer. I discovered that most mainstream options were loaded with preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and sulphites—the very things that trigger inflammation and that "heavy" feeling.
50 Batches to the "Mellow Glow"
I started experimenting in my kitchen, testing over 30 different types of ginger from around the globe. After 50 batches, I finally found it: the perfect recipe. It was well-balanced, clean, and 100% natural, featuring fresh organic ingredients and absolutely nothing artificial.
The most amazing part? Even people who said they "didn't usually like ginger beer" fell in love with Sunnyside’s crisp, botanical finish.
From Kickstarter to the Festival Field
That overwhelmingly positive feedback gave us the confidence to take the leap. Thanks to the incredible support of 84 backers on Kickstarter, we successfully funded our first trial. After back-to-back sell-out production runs, we knew we were onto something special.
Our journey is proof that you don't have to settle for additive-heavy, oversweetened drinks. When you prioritise honesty and real ingredients, you create a drink that tastes better and feels better.
our values
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Mateship
We live the concept of Mateship, a term which refers to a unique form of friendship and companionship, often characterised by loyalty, camaraderie, mutual support, and a strong sense of solidarity. -
positivity
We’re all about positivity and looking on the Sunnyside of life. We’re optimistic and enthusiastic about everything we do and show support and kindness to everyone we work with. -
Adventure
Life is for living and we seize the day. Our heartland is the great outdoors and we love the excitement of exploring and collaborating with friends. Adventure involves an element of risk and uncertainty but we love pushing boundaries. -
Integrity
We're committed to doing what's right, from sourcing the best ingredients to being honest in our business. This is the bedrock of Sunnyside.
Sustainability
Kickstarter Founding Members
Ever wondered how some businesses get off the ground? Well in our case, it’s all down to these legends below who pledged their hard cash in support of Sunnyside Drinks Co. These founding members are the reason we’re here and we’ll forever be grateful.
Thomas de Vries, Giles Roberts, Lindey Cole, Geoff and Anna Heath, Will Oatley, Nick Smart, Adam Williams, Mike Thisted, Sandra Hockenhull, Doreen Hall, Beth Clifton, Andra Stan, Clare McGuinness, Rosy Harrington, Ian Davidson, James Brueton, Tim Rasbash, Katharine Duncan, Christabel Cant, Jemima Collins, Mark Williams, Hanna Hiscoe-James, Holly Chapman, Mark Terris, Remi Baker, Mikala Tai, Tom & Rosie Boardman, Sebastian Bennett, Sue Williams, Lou Lea, Elizabeth Tekno, Ned Curtis, Søren Andreasen Aktieselskabet Dagelykke Ejendomme, Paul McGuinness, Milla Rae, Nabil Mustafiz, Paul O’Boyle, Jonny Rt Hon Stark Esq, Matthew Dutton, Chelsea Glanville, JJ O’Neill, Irene Hawlader-Bell, Evan Golbach, Andrew Linch, Cat Paterson, Catherine Hay, Ollie’s Bouncy Castle Hire, Tom Cherrill, Frazer Hiscoe-James, Tineke Poot, Adam Ward, Jack Rodgers, Thomas Richardson, Kuldip Jagdev, Wes Britten, Professor Sir Harry Twort, Rebecca Herbert, Sharon Oakes, Duncan Warner, Emily Marcham, Chris Ramsay, Thomas Kaye, Brith Erichsen, Sarah Stringer, Ali and Rob Sprason, Nick Heath, Jack Boulton, Chris and Jane Pilton, Natalie Farmer, Daniel Close, Alexander Cowie, Sally Gray, Luke Jacques, Will Barlow, Helen Stolton, Geraint Hughes, Nick Jeggo, David Milligan, Dulcie Flynn, Ray Hartley, Roy Hockenhull.
