We have some very exciting news to share with you today from the heart of Wellington’s vibrant food and beverage scene. Six Barrel Soda, a beloved name in the craft soda industry for over a decade, has been acquired by Matt and Tracy Day from St Andrews Limes. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for both companies and promises a bright future for craft soda enthusiasts in Wellington and beyond.

The Journey of Six Barrel Soda

Six Barrel Soda has been a pioneer in the craft soda industry since its inception. Known for their sustainably-made syrups, small-batch sodas, sugar-free Seltz Drops, and innovative Sparkler soda makers, they’ve carved out a niche for themselves. Over the years, they’ve built a loyal following not just in New Zealand but internationally, thanks to their commitment to quality and innovation. The founders, Joe, Mike, Chris, and the Six Barrel team, have expressed their gratitude towards everyone who has been part of this journey, “We’re so grateful to all of you who’ve been part of our journey.”

Introducing Matt and Tracy Day

Matt and Tracy Day are no strangers to the beverage industry, having run St Andrews Limes, which has been supplying Six Barrel Soda with their delicious lime and lemon juice for the past five years. This long-standing relationship has been built on mutual respect and shared values, making them the ideal successors. “They’re great people, and we’re excited about the future of Six Barrel Soda. We know they’ll do an amazing job,” the Six Barrel team assures.

A Synergistic Acquisition

The acquisition of Six Barrel Soda by St Andrews Limes is not just a business transaction; it’s a union of two entities with a shared vision for quality and sustainability. This partnership opens up a wealth of opportunities, particularly in production and community engagement. Matt and Tracy have ambitious plans for a new, shared production facility in Hawke’s Bay, which will be the region’s first-ever specialty soda factory and cellar door, open to the public. This move is expected to enhance the local economy and provide a unique experience for soda lovers.

What This Means for Wellington

For Wellingtonians, this acquisition means continuity with innovation. Six Barrel Soda’s products, known for their restaurant-quality taste, will continue to be available through all usual stockists and online. The transition is set to be seamless, with the official handover on the 31st of March 2025. “We’re committed to a seamless handover, with minimal changes for our customers and suppliers,” the team promises. This ensures that the beloved Six Barrel Soda drinks remain a staple in Wellington’s cafes, restaurants, and homes.

Operational Changes

During the transition, there will be a brief pause in operations. The online store will take a short break from the 28th of March to the 4th of April, and the cellar door on Lukes Lane will close as of the 27th of March. This downtime is to ensure a smooth transition and to prepare for the exciting future under Matt and Tracy’s stewardship. For any questions during this period, customers can reach out to Matt and Tracy at limes@limes.co.nz or the Six Barrel team at hi@sixbarrelsoda.co.

The Impact on the Craft Soda Industry

The craft soda market has seen significant growth, with a report from the New Zealand Food and Beverage Industry indicating a 15% increase in demand for artisanal beverages over the last five years. Six Barrel Soda’s acquisition by St Andrews Limes could set a precedent for how small, innovative companies can scale up while maintaining their ethos. This move could potentially lead to increased market share, new product lines, and enhanced distribution channels, benefiting not just Wellington but the broader New Zealand market.

Community and Environmental Commitment

Both Six Barrel Soda and St Andrews Limes have a strong commitment to sustainability. Six Barrel Soda’s use of local, organic ingredients and eco-friendly packaging has been a hallmark of their brand. With St Andrews Limes, known for their sustainable citrus farming practices, this commitment is expected to deepen. The new production facility in Hawke’s Bay will likely incorporate green technologies, reducing the carbon footprint of production and setting a standard for environmental responsibility in the beverage industry.

Looking Forward

As we look to the future, the integration of Six Barrel Soda into the St Andrews Limes family is poised to bring fresh energy and ideas to the craft soda scene. Matt and Tracy’s vision includes not only expanding production but also engaging with the community through events, tastings, and educational tours at the new facility. This approach not only promotes their products but also educates the public on sustainable practices in food and beverage production.

Conclusion

The acquisition of Six Barrel Soda by Matt and Tracy Day from St Andrews Limes is a testament to the strength of local business collaboration in Wellington. It’s a story of growth, sustainability, and community involvement. As we celebrate this new chapter, we invite all Wellingtonians to continue supporting Six Barrel Soda, now under the stewardship of two passionate local entrepreneurs. The future looks bright, with more delicious, innovative, and sustainable sodas on the horizon.

Note: This article was written on behalf of One Network Wellington Live to celebrate the acquisition of Six Barrel Soda by St Andrews Limes, highlighting the significance for Wellington’s local economy and craft beverage scene. We encourage our readers to stay tuned for updates on the new production facility and to continue enjoying the unique flavors of Six Barrel Soda.