Saxbys Soft Drinks
For more than 160 years, Saxbys Soft Drinks has been refreshing generations of Australians with proudly local, family-made beverages. From its beginnings in Taree in 1864 to becoming Australia's oldest family-owned soft drink manufacturer, the business continues to blend tradition, innovation and community connection.
George Saxby
George Saxby at Saxbys Soft Drinks
Few Australian businesses can trace their story back to the 1860s, but Saxbys Soft Drinks has been part of life in the Manning Valley since 1864. Founded by George Saxby in Taree, the family business began with a fascination for aerated waters and a ginger beer recipe that remains at the heart of the company’s range more than 160 years later.
Today, Saxbys is Australia’s oldest family-owned soft drink manufacturer. Five generations after George Saxby founded the business, Managing Director Ian Turner, his great-great-grandson, is helping guide the company’s next chapter from the Manning Valley.
Over more than 160 years, Saxbys has adapted to changing consumer tastes, new technology and an increasingly competitive market, while maintaining its strong connection to the community that has supported it from the beginning.
“Part of our success is being part of the local community,” Ian says.
That connection has helped sustain Saxbys through generations of change. The business has weathered challenges including wartime shortages, supply disruptions and the major transformation of the soft drink industry in the 1970s and 1980s. At a time when many independent manufacturers moved away from production, Saxbys remained committed to making soft drinks locally. Of the roughly 80 regional soft drink manufacturers that once operated across New South Wales, of those Saxbys is now the only one still manufacturing carbonated soft drinks.
Still Refreshing
Ian Turner shares how five generations of family ownership, a commitment to local manufacturing and deep community connections have helped Saxbys thrive for more than 160 years.
George Saxby inspecting at Saxbys Soft Drinks
For Ian, the strength of the business comes down to the people behind it.
“People make it happen, not products,” he says.
That focus on people, persistence and innovation has helped Saxbys remain relevant across five generations. Today, the business continues to supply customers across regional New South Wales and beyond replace with supply local, national and international customers, while continuing to explore new products and growth opportunities.
Saxbys has also maintained a 73 year relationship with Business NSW, accessing support and expertise across areas including workplace relations, workers’ compensation, legal matters and industrial awards.
“When you look at it, there’s not many peak bodies around with that sort of knowledge, and it’s all in one place,” Ian says.
As Business NSW celebrates 200 years of supporting businesses, Saxbys is looking ahead to its own future. After more than 160 years, the family-owned business remains focused on innovation, quality and community, ensuring a story that began in the Manning Valley continues for years to come.
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