In the era of mass-produced plastic bottles, one Midwestern soda company stands out by embracing a nostalgic tradition. Twig’s Beverage, based in Shawano County, Wisconsin, continues to offer its soft drinks in returnable glass bottles, keeping alive a practice largely abandoned in the 1960s.

A Tradition That Defies Time

While the United States sees the purchase of 127 billion plastic bottles annually, Twig’s remains committed to glass. Customers pay a $20 deposit for a case of 24 bottles, which they can return for refills directly at the factory. Some bottles in circulation have been around for six decades, a testament to their durability and the loyalty of Twig’s customer base.

The Enduring Appeal of Nostalgia

Ben Hartwig, Twig’s vice-president, notes the intergenerational connection among customers. “We’ve been seeing some families come in for years,” he shares, emphasizing the emotional value of these cases. He adds, “It’s really cool to see them still going through our washer today. We’d love to keep the tradition alive as long as we can.”

Family Legacy and Community Bonds

Founded in 1951 by Floyd Hartwig, the company’s origins trace back to a Tokyo hospital bed, where Floyd conceptualized the soda business during his recovery from war injuries. Initially tapping into the post-WWII consumer boom, the company has remained in family hands, now managed by the third generation of Hartwigs.

A Unique Product Line

Twig’s is renowned for its Sun Drop, a citrus-flavored soda developed in the 1940s and made under license from Keurig Dr Pepper. Uniquely, Twig’s version is the only one still available in returnable glass bottles. The company also produces a variety of fruit sodas using real sugar, setting them apart from others that opt for high fructose corn syrup.

Expansion Plans Amidst Tradition

Despite its historical roots, Twig’s is looking to grow. They plan to expand their branded sodas across the Midwest, with glass bottles in distribution, though these won’t be returnable outside their local area. “We are slowly picking up distributors and growing the brand,” says Hartwig, aiming for broader regional presence.

Challenges and Resilience

Operating within a small community of roughly 9,000 people, Twig’s integrates deeply into local culture. Their annual Sun Drop Dayz festival celebrates this connection. Yet, the company faces challenges like fluctuating sugar prices. Hartwig mentions their efforts to mitigate these issues without raising product prices, showcasing the resilient spirit that has defined Twig’s for decades.

Originally reported by bbc.com. Rewritten by 360DailyTrend editorial staff.