Breckland Orchard Craft Cola
Breckland Orchard is a family-owned soft drink company located just outside Cambridge. It was founded in spring 2009 by Claire Breckland, who had previously worked in the chocolate industry. After having two children and facing a long daily commute, she chose to start her own business closer to home.
Her aim was to create soft drinks inspired by the ones she remembered from her childhood. Early flavours included strawberry, rhubarb, pear & apple, and elderflower. By 2025, the range has grown to 15 different varieties.
One of the more recent additions is Craft Cola, introduced in March 2018. Unlike many mainstream colas, Breckland Orchard’s version contains no E numbers. Specifically E150d (Sulphite Ammonia Caramel) and E338 (Phosphoric Acid), which are commonly used in other colas. Instead, the color comes from barley malt extract.
From the beginning, Breckland Orchard has focused on small-scale, independent distribution. Its drinks are sold only through farm shops, coffee shops, delis, and cafés across the UK. The company has made a clear decision not to supply supermarkets.
