The story of Puig, one of Mallorca’s most cherished beverage companies, is a tale of resilience, innovation, and family legacy. Spanning nearly a century, the Puig family has brought generations together over the simple joy of a refreshing drink, creating not just a product but a part of Mallorcan cultural heritage.
A Crisis Sparks Opportunity
In 1927, the world was reeling from an economic crisis that forced the Puig Puigserver brothers to rethink their livelihoods. Their shoe factory, a cornerstone of their community, was no longer sustainable. Determined to adapt, Julià Puig decided to risk everything on a different industry entirely: soft drinks. By 1929, he had created PINYA, a sweet, non-alcoholic drink that captured the essence of Mallorca’s vibrant flavors.
PINYA quickly became a beloved staple on the island, produced with an original recipe that has remained unchanged for over 90 years. Through turbulent times — including the Spanish Civil War — the Puig factory not only survived but thrived, employing more than 100 workers at its peak.
A Legacy Passed Down
The Puig brand has always been a family affair, with each generation passing the torch to the next. In 1965, Julià Puig Manresa, son of the founder, took over the business, maintaining its commitment to quality and tradition. In 1998, Julià Puig Mòjer, the founder’s grandson, continued the family’s vision, bringing new energy and ideas to the table.
Today, the third and fourth generations of the Puig family are at the helm, steering the company towards a sustainable future while honoring the principles that built its legacy.
The 1970s Boom and Beyond
The late 1970s marked a period of expansion for Puig as it collaborated on the La Revoltosa project, contributing to the distribution of iconic Mallorcan brands like Gum i Ramis from Felanitx and Segura from Porreres. These partnerships solidified Puig’s place as a key player in Mallorca’s beverage industry.
And in 2021, Puig celebrated a new milestone: opening a state-of-the-art bottling plant in Palma. This development ushered in a modern brand style and an expanded product range, ensuring that Puig remains a leader in the local market.
Sustainability at Heart
In an era where businesses are expected to do more than just sell products, Puig has embraced sustainability as a core value. The company’s beverages are produced entirely on the island, adhering to principles of “Zero Kilometer” production. In a nod to ecological responsibility, Puig uses no plastic in its operations, aligning itself with the global push for environmentally conscious practices.
The Star Players: Puig’s Signature Drinks
Puig’s lineup is a mix of timeless classics and modern innovations, offering something for every palate:
- Taronjada and Llimonada
These citrus-based sodas, crafted from original family recipes, deliver a taste of Mallorca in every sip. Taronjada, with 8% orange juice concentrate, offers a sweet burst of sunshine, while Llimonada, with 6% lemon juice concentrate, balances sweet and sour to perfection. - Cola and Cola Zero
Puig’s local take on cola drinks rivals international brands with its rich flavor, enhanced by real kola nut. Ideal for pairing with hearty meals, these colas are both delicious and functional, aiding digestion. - Mixers for the Sophisticated Palate
Targeted at adults, Puig’s mixer range elevates cocktails to new heights. Soda Clàssica pairs effortlessly with whiskey, while Tónica Marina — Mallorca’s only locally made tonic — shines alongside gin. For a spicy twist, Ginger Beer is the perfect base for a classic mule cocktail.
The Future is Bright and Bubbly
As Puig embraces modern challenges, it remains firmly rooted in its traditions. From the first bottle of PINYA to today’s innovative mixers, the Puig family has demonstrated that a commitment to quality, sustainability, and community can create a legacy as enduring as the bubbles in their drinks.
Text by Stefan Rairyan
