Ribena Solbær blackcurrant squash

Ribena is an iconic British fruit drink brand, best known for its blackcurrant-based syrups and ready-to-drink juices. Originally developed in 1938 by H.W. Carter & Co. at Bristol University, it was famously distributed for free to children during World War II as a vitamin C supplement when oranges were scarce. The brand has a long agricultural heritage, sourcing the vast majority of blackcurrants grown in the UK.

Over the decades, ownership of Ribena transitioned through major pharmaceutical firms, including Beecham and later GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). In 2013, the brand was acquired by the Japanese beverage giant Suntory Beverage & Food, which now manages its production and global distribution. While deeply rooted in British culture, it is now part of a major international portfolio focusing on health-oriented beverages.