Every journey has its defining moments — and for us at Root2Ginger, this one feels extraordinary. We are beyond excited to share that Root2Ginger has been chosen as a winner of the Fortnum & Mason Open Call!
This is a historic year for Fortnum & Mason, as it’s the very first time the iconic Piccadilly store has opened its doors to food and drink makers across the UK and Ireland. To be part of this milestone — and to be named one of just ten winners — is something we’ll never forget.
Taking A Chance
Back in May, we sent off our application with hope in our hearts and ginger in our bottles. Alongside our award-winning range of organic ginger drinks, we told the story of Root2Ginger — from our roots in family tradition to our dedication to clean, ethically sourced ingredients, thoughtful packaging, and sustainability.
We knew our drinks carried generations of love and craft, but we never imagined what would happen next.
Pitching At Piccadilly
Fast forward to 12th June. Deanne, our founder, walked into Fortnum & Mason’s Piccadilly store to pitch to the buying team. Four judges sat at the table, and in front of them — our drinks.
They tasted each flavour, mixing them with sparkling and still water, even discussing which cocktails they might create. But beyond the drinks themselves, Deanne shared our story: a heritage of making ginger drinks passed down through generations, a business built with family, and the joy of working alongside her children to grow Root2Ginger.
The judges asked questions, they listened, and most importantly, they felt the passion that drives everything we do.
The Moment That Changed Everything
After such an exciting morning, Deanne left the store with one thought in mind: now, we wait. The team had said it would take about a month to hear back. But later that very same day, the phone rang.
The news? Root2Ginger was one of the winners.
It was a moment of pure joy — a celebration of all the hard work, late nights, and unwavering belief that has gone into this business from day one.
What's Next?
As winners, our drinks will be on the shelves at Fortnum & Mason’s flagship Piccadilly store from 14th August — and available online too. Orders have already been placed, contracts signed, and we’ve been busy brewing fresh batches of our ginger drinks, ready to be shared with Fortnum & Mason’s customers.
This is just the beginning. We have more exciting opportunities as part of this prize, and we can’t wait to take you along on this journey with us.
Thank You
None of this would have been possible without the love and support of so many people — from those who encouraged us when times were tough, to our family who never stopped believing, and to every customer who has chosen Root2Ginger.
From Manchester roots to Fortnum & Mason shelves — this is more than just a milestone. It’s proof that passion, tradition, and belief can take you places you never dreamed possible.
Photography image © David Loftus
