Founded in 2020, Ten Locks, a subsidiary of Kingsland Drinks, is an independent Manchester-based drinks company renowned for its curated selection of brands that epitomise authenticity, sustainability, and quality. The enterprise, under Becky Davies' leadership, swiftly amassed a repertoire of premium spirits, catering to both on-trade and off-trade sectors. One notable innovation is their Pod Pea Vodka, a sustainable spirit derived from British peas, embodying the parent company's core values and gaining traction in prestigious UK venues.
Launching amid the pandemic, Ten Locks faced unique challenges, particularly with their pea-based vodka. The peas, sourced from Somerleyton farm in Suffolk, posed an unexpected explosive risk during production, leading to careful handling and a meticulous distillation process to preserve the vodka's distinctive flavour. Despite the hurdles, Pod Pea Vodka represents a sustainable, quintessentially British brand, with peas selected for their environmental benefits as nitrogen-fixing plants.
Ten Locks' commitment to sustainability is profound, extending beyond the spirits themselves to packaging and production methods. For instance, Pod's bottles utilise locally sourced sand, reducing carbon footprint, and labels are crafted from wood-free, FSC-certified sandpaper, eschewing plastics to enhance recyclability. Furthermore, the company is exploring innovative uses for leftover pea pulp and working towards B-corp certification and vegan accreditation, though Davies acknowledges more progress is necessary.
The brand has seen significant on-trade focus, with listings in renowned establishments across Manchester and London, including The Ivy, Hawksmoor, and Nobu. Pod Pea Vodka's unique flavour profile has piqued interest, offering a versatile base for classic cocktails reimagined with a 'green' twist. This intrigue has not only bolstered Pod's reputation but also enhanced visibility for Ten Locks' entire portfolio.
As Ten Locks navigates the future, the emphasis remains on representing brands that challenge the norm and advocate positive change. Despite lacking the vast resources of larger entities, their tailored approach and dedication to quality and sustainability set them apart in the spirits industry. Pod Pea Vodka exemplifies this ethos, reinvigorating the vodka category and capturing the imagination of consumers and trade professionals alike through its environmental consciousness and innovative flavour.