With more than 12 years’ experience in the hospitality and nightlife industry, Ruth Jones quickly worked her way up to management. However, she had always dreamed of starting her own business and being on furlough during covid-19 allowed her to turn this dream into reality.
After conducting thorough market research, Ruth discovered that the ready-to-drink (RTD) market was growing rapidly in the UK, and she wanted to shake it up. This is when her Twister Sisters concept was born – a premium Scottish drinks brand producing hard seltzers and RTD cocktails with unique flavour combinations.
In June 2020, Ruth joined Elevator’s Aberdeen Academic Accelerator to increase her confidence and connections, as well as enhance her knowledge of certain business areas such as planning and finance.
Ruth commented: “I have the experience of running businesses day-to-day, but I have never started up on my own. Knowing where to begin was pretty daunting, so the Accelerator gave me the clarity and direction I needed.”
Joining the programme with an open mind, Ruth was so grateful to increase her network and have a wealth of support around her.
“I can’t say enough good things about my experience! Had it not been for the Accelerator, my business idea would have remained a pipe dream. I felt extremely supported when developing my Twisted Sisters business – all the advice and feedback I received was positive and constructive.
“I met so many amazing people along the way and in turn, I have amassed a network of contacts whom I can call upon for advice at any time. For this, I am eternally grateful.
“If you are thinking about joining an Accelerator, just do it! It is a remarkable experience and I promise, you won’t regret it.”
Since the programme, Ruth and Co-Founder Stuart McPhee have been busy behind the scenes developing the drinks recipes and branding.
Hitting its first major milestone, Twisted Sisters launched its presale at the end of June 2021, with three premium hard seltzer drinks available to purchase from its website – blueberry and elderflower, coconut and lime, and rhubarb and ginger.
With a number of bar stockists now also signed up, this is only the beginning for Twisted Sisters.
If you think you could benefit from one of our programmes, then apply today.
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