FOOD & BEVERAGES
explains . “ It ’ s also speaking to a lot of people , asking questions and ultimately doing research . I used all those skills to look for the right people to work with , networking , and assessing how the packaging and bottle design was going to look . In the end it ’ s all about people , and how you get on with them .”
From the start , Shirley knew she didn ’ t want to be brewing up drinks in her own kitchen , but says it took some time to perfect the recipes in the factory . She adopted a less-is-more philosophy to their formulation - keeping the various components to a minimum and using only identifiable quality ingredients such as organic cane sugar instead of artificial sweetener . She emphasizes the natural health benefits of ginger and sorrel , as well as their potential in an ever-growing market for noand low-alcohol drinks . And her flavors are already proving popular , with OTC Beverages shortlisted for a number of accolades including the Great British Food Awards in 2020 . In the summer of 2021 , OTC received an award for the ‘ Best Traditional Caribbean Drink Company ’ at the annual Lux Life Magazine Food & Drink and in March 2022 received the Award for Excellence with E2 Media – Food & Drinks Category .
Shirley is now working to bring her products to more locations in London , and has plans for the rest of the world as well . There ’ s a few logistical wrinkles to iron out , although her medium term goal is to bring her sorrel and ginger beer to America and Africa . “ It ’ s at the stage where I ’ m growing the brand , I ’ m building momentum , and when consumers go to a shop to purchase a drink , I want OTC to be an identifiable brand of choice ”.
For more information and to place your order , visit : www . otcbeverages . com www . instagram . com / otcbeverages
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