SHIRLEY WHITE
Launched in 2017, OTC Beverages (Original Traditional Concoctions) is an award winning non-alcoholic drinks brand named after Shirley's son's Omari, Tyrone and her nephew Corey.
We speak to her during Write a Business Plan Month about her experiences.
All information and links were correct at the date of original publication on
1 Dec 2021
Writing a Business Plan. Was it a good idea?
Yes, we believe we filled the gap by bringing a non-alcoholic drinks brand to the market.
This healthy refreshing drink can be obtained in two distinct flavours; Sorrel and Ginger – the latter being Ginger Beer. It has been specifically manufactured to assist in and aid the maintenance of a healthy digestive system.
What did you learn?
My background is in banking and finance, so I have learnt a significant amount about manufacturing and the Food industry in general.
I started my journey by researching a bottling company and what it meant to go into manufacturing. This was a real eye opener for me as I come from a Finance & Banking background, so it was a real baptism of fire!
I met with the bottling company and was encouraged by Lee the owner to pursue my journey.
The bottling company has been very supportive. I thoroughly enjoyed working in the lab creating the recipes. I learnt about MOQ, trademarks, bottle design, sleeving, printing, website creation, bottle caps, right weight bottles, labelling etc. Lots of moving parts.
I've attended many exhibitions, ran taster sessions for potential clients, speaking restaurants, videos, radio interviews....it’s been great and I have enjoyed the journey so far.
Additionally, I have learnt that it's all about people and how you and your product makes them feel. I believe in my brand, its quality and appeal to all.
If you don't like the position, size or placement of the photos, grab, move, rotate or resize them until you do!
Did you start without a business plan?
Coming from a financial background, I strongly believe you need a business plan as a foundation so you can focus on your goals.
A business plan is not static but an evolving document.
Where did you start?
I started with the idea, and what if fundamentally meant to me and my customer base, then expanded from there.
We have created a tag which we feel represents the brand which is #EnjoyTheTaste #Refreshing