‘The story of Kinnie is as unique as its distinctive taste’ – Farsons’ Susan Weenink Camilleri

Kinnie, the iconic beverage dubbed Malta’s own favourite soft drink, is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year.

Since its launch on the local market back in 1952 by Simonds Farsons Cisk, Kinnie has always set out to be different from other beverages.

Over the past 70 years, the bittersweet soft drink has evolved to become one of Malta’s leading and much-loved brands.

“The story of Kinnie is as unique as is its distinctive taste and flavour, and celebrating a 70th anniversary is a huge milestone for any brand,” Susan Weenink Camilleri, Head of Sales and Marketing at Farsons said.

“We have a number of initiatives, promotions, and activities lined up for the weeks and months ahead, marking this special occasion. We have also commissioned a set of original illustrations that will be featured widely across the celebratory campaign, including limited-edition packaging and advertising,” she continued.

Kinnie was the brainchild of former Farsons Chairman and Managing Director Anthony Miceli, or ‘is-Sur Niní’ as he was better known.

The beverage was developed as a response to the entry of a number of international brands, mainly cola-flavoured, that were being introduced into post-way Malta.

The Kinnie portfolio has been extended over the years and now includes two variants: Diet Kinnie, a low-calorie version launched in 1984; and Kinnie Zest, a sugar-free, extra orange flavour variant that appeals to a younger generation of new consumers, launched in 2007.

In addition, 2021 saw the hugely successful launch of Kinnie Spritz, a 4% ABV alcoholic aperitivo. Blended with a unique mix of natural bitters and botanicals and Italian sparkling white wine, Kinnie Spritz builds on Kinnie’s inherent mixability and classic bittersweet flavour.

Kinnie plays a key role in Farsons’ overall strategy for future growth and is significant particularly to the exports area.

Already available across Europe in countries such as the UK, Poland, France, Germany, Czech Republic and The Netherlands amongst others,

Kinnie is also available further afield in Canada and Australia. Kinnie is produced, marketed, and distributed by Simonds Farsons Cisk plc, a member of The Farsons Group.