Chu Lo drinks is a Manchester Based start-up that is banishing the boring and is out to disrupt the UK Soft Drinks Market. In her first year as an entrepreneur, founder Steph Buttery has been shortlisted by the Great British Entrepreneur awards as Food and Drink Entrepreneur of the year for the North West.

During a 4 month deployment to the Far East with the Royal Navy, Steph left Japan inspired by the variety of Chu Hai sour drinks on offer. Upon her return, by comparison, she observed the lack of excitement in the UK soft drinks market. So she decided to make her own version of these Japanese classics because the way of Manchester is to make it yourself.

Chu Lo Drinks were launched last summer at a pop up on Deansgate and went on to be part of the Manchester Youth Markets.  Chu Lo Drinks were tested and finessed, prior to officially launching in November at the International Drinks Expo. At the Expo the distinctive branding went on to receive the Design Excellence Award and Steph received recognition for her efforts by being awarded the FSB Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Chu Lo drinks can now be found in venues across the UK, from Manchester to Mayfair, and has big plans for the 2021.

The Great British Entrepreneur Awards acknowledge the hard work and inspiring stories of entrepreneurs and businesses in the United Kingdom. In previous years the Awards have celebrated some outstanding entrepreneurs who have gone on to become household names. Previous winners include the founders of BrewDog, Tangle Teezer, The LAD Bible, Clearscore & The Cambridge Satchel Company.

Finals Time

This year, with face to face events challenging, the regional heats will be celebrated online on September 23rd.

“I am overwhelmed for being recognised in the Food and Drink category. The North West has so many incredible food producers and I am delighted to have been shortlisted amongst some of the best.” Steph Buttery Founder.

Founder of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, Francesca James, said: “Given what we’ve seen over the past few months, the 2020 edition of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards is arguably the most important. Now, more than ever, it’s vital that we celebrate the achievements of the country’s entrepreneurs and their determination in the face of such adversity.”