Two Green Lemons

Two Green Lemons are making inroads, and were awarded both a Silver and Gold award at the 2023 awards. We were eager to learn more about this innovative company and recently conducted an interview with them.

Please tell us when your company was founded and some of its history.

Two Green Lemons was founded in 2016 by Dr. Hanneli van der Merwe and business partner Chris Wium. We began with a batch of Barker and Quin Premium Indian Tonic water, which sold out quickly and made us realize the demand for premium mixers in glass bottles in the South African market. As a result, we expanded our offerings and developed a complete range of tonics and mixers.

Eventually, we shifted our focus to non-alcoholic beverages and introduced John Ross Virgin Distilled Botanicals. This new product line consists of three different variants, all crafted from natural ingredients and spring water. Importantly, our beverages contain no sugar, no carbs, and no alcohol.

We are delighted to have received fantastic feedback from various trade partners and are proud to say that we now export our product range to more than 15 countries.

Please tell us about some of the unique features of your company.

We are a drinks and beverage development company that specializes in private label work for both retail and private clients seeking to launch their own high-end premium beverage brands. If you can dream it, we can create it. We excel in every step of the process, from conception to consumption!

What do you think are some of the unique products you have?

Our product, John Ross The Pioneer, is carefully crafted using South African Honeybush and natural spring water, resulting in a delightful blend. It pairs perfectly with our Barker and Quin Honeybush and Orange Premium Tonic water. Additionally, we have developed a Barker and Quin Premium Marula tonic water, which complements any mainstream London Dry Gin, elevating your drink to a magical experience! Simply add ice and some mint leaves, and prepare to be thrilled!

Please tell us what is unique about your production/manufacturing process, and your philosophy around this.

We use only the finest ingredients and natural spring water in both Barker and Quin and John Ross Virgin Distilled Botanicals. Our commitment to quality is unwavering, and we ensure that every batch is meticulously produced, bottled, and packed with the utmost care and attention to detail. When consumers open one of our products, they can expect a premium experience layered with quality.

What do you think is your distinct advantage or reason for your success?

We prioritise attention to detail, focusing on enhancing the consumer experience. As brand owners, we strive to be accessible to our clients, customers, and consumers, valuing their needs and feedback above all else. They mean everything to us.

What is the consumer demographic of your products, and what feedback are you getting?

We cater to the mid to high LSM (Living Standards Measure) consumer demographic. Our Barker and Quin tonic water range has captured the hearts of consumers, who adore its unique and versatile nature. It complements a wide variety of gin brands, including craft, single batch, mainstream gins, and you're favourite spirits. On the other hand, John Ross Virgin Distilled Botanicals' distinctive flavour and health benefits have made consumers eager to return for more! Even in our export markets, the product has gained immense popularity and is now available in multiple countries.

How do you see your company or product on the global stage?

We export our products to over 15 countries. Our journey in the export business began in 2016, with Germany being the recipient of our first export order. Since then, our brands have successfully made their way to various corners of the globe. As a producer of premium brands, we really enjoy the journey on the global stage. Our tonic waters have won multiple competitions and enjoyed wide ranged success against other premium brands.

In what countries can your products be found?

Germany, Hungary, Ireland and UK, Canada, USA, Australia, Belgium, Netherlands, Kenya, Mauritius, Bermuda, Zanzibar, New Zealand, Nigeria, France, Iceland, Jersey, Middle East.

Please tell us if you have any innovations in the pipeline for the future.

Absolutely! We are excited about our upcoming venture, something truly special for non-alcoholic drinkers, reflecting the uniqueness of South Africa! Collaborating with Workbench1 has been an absolute joy; they are highly innovative and creative. Our planned launch is set for 2024.

In addition to that, our private label work has led us to create several new and innovative non-alcoholic functional beverages. One of the brands we helped, called Brooks Hard Seltzer, we are particularly proud of! Currently, we are actively engaged in five new private label projects, each offering unique selling points and unbelievable flavours! Watch this space!

Contact details:

Contact person: Chris Wium

Email Address: info@barkerandquin.co.za

Contact Number: +27 (0)21 204 2493

Website: https://www.twogreenlemons.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barkerandquin

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnross_virgin_distilled_gin/