Fast-growing kombucha drinks brand, Hip Pop, has been awarded ‘Independent Drinks Producer of the Year’ at the prestigious Manchester Food and Drink Festival.
One of the most highly anticipated events of the year, the Manchester Food and Drink Festival Awards [MFDF] took place on Monday 26th September 2022, and celebrated the very best in hospitality across Greater Manchester. Highlighting both industry talent and outstanding contributions to the region’s community, 17 winners were announced across a host of different categories. These included Neighbourhood of the Year, Coffee Shop of the Year, Great Service Award and more.
Originally launched in 2019 as ‘Booch & Brew’ by friends Emma Thackray and Kenny Goodman, ‘Hip Pop’ has since evolved into an established, functional drinks brand, where its ‘gut lovin’ range of organic Kombucha, CBD Kombucha and Living Soda are now sold by leading retailers across the UK, including Booths, Harrods, Not on the High Street and Health Store. The Cheshire-born brand has seen an exciting period of growth during 2022, having doubled its revenue and headcount over the last 12 months, now employing a team of 16.
Securing the ‘Independent Drinks Producer of the Year’ award is not only representative of Hip Pop’s continued success, but also its growing presence within the Manchester hospitality industry. Kenny Goodman, co-founder of Hip Pop, confirmed: “The last 12 months have been incredibly fast paced for Hip Pop, as more retailers and consumers alike engage in the brand and our mission to create functional drinks that not only taste good, but also ‘do’ good and look good too.
“We are delighted to have won Independent Drinks Producer of the Year at such a renowned, regional awards and extend our congratulations to the 16 other winners!”
Now in its 25th year, the Manchester Food and Drink Festival was created to celebrate locally grown talent.
Having closed a successful crowdfunding campaign in May 2022, Hip Pop has been recognised for its superior brewing quality by multiple industry awards, including two stars at the Great Taste Awards.
