Pacific Gold Beverage Corp. specializes in creating refreshing artisanal drinks inspired by a passion for health and wellness and the sunlit coastlines of BC. This female-owned, family-run business is committed to creating healthier beverages with a focus on sustainability and using quality ingredients.
It’s an “alternative to sugary drinks, a good option for cafés and restaurants wanting artisan soda options, and for anyone seeking vibrant, low-calorie flavour without artificial ingredients,” said the founder, Tanya Olsen.
They brew like a kid with a chemistry set— fearless, wide-eyed, and always chasing that next delicious surprise. Every recipe goes through the ringer, refined through multiple tasting rounds until it’s just right. The final blend is chosen by friends and family to ensure it is loved by all.
“There’s something special about creating a refreshing moment that’s both delicious and better for you.”
After making their first-ever sale at Kelly’s Health Shop in Powell River, BC, interest in the beverage company grew and you can now find their sodas in many stores across BC, AB and online.
This rock-star business truly sets the gold standard with its handcrafted, health-focused, irresistibly delicious beverages.
As part of our “Client of the Month” series, we asked the owner Tanya Olsen everything from her proudest moment so far to the lessons she learned along the way as a business owner, and here is what she had to say:
1. What motivated you to start your own business?
Family run, inspired by our pacific coastal roots and a desire for a beverage that represents our values, we created Gold Soda; a naturally crafted, preservative-free, and lightly sparkling option for those who crave simplicity and quality.
2. What do you enjoy most about being a business owner?
I love the creative freedom, developing new flavour combinations, collaborating with local suppliers, and building a community around cleaner beverages.
3. What has been your biggest challenge as a small business owner?
Managing growth and finances, scaling production, maintaining consistent quality, and expanding distribution while staying true to the brand’s clean, natural roots.
4. How did you get your first customer?
The first sale was in Powell River at Kelly’s Health Shop which sparked consumer interest. Word-of-mouth among wellness-minded customers helped the brand gain early traction.
5. How did your business get its name?
“Pacific Gold” nods to B.C.’s West Coast heritage and the “liquid gold” quality of our handcrafted, healthy beverages.
6. Fun fact most people don’t know?
Every recipe is taste-tested over multiple rounds. The final formula is chosen by sampling with friends and family to ensure broad appeal. It is also available with Fair Trade Organic Cane sugar, underscoring our commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability.
7. Describe a typical day.
Early mornings start with email checks. Mid-day might is often meetings with suppliers, staff, and planning upcoming events. Afternoons are spent getting feet on the ground finding new retailers and increasing brand awareness.
8. Proudest moment so far?
Securing shelf space at health-food retailers and grocery stores such as Coop, Pharmasave, Independent Grocers and Fresons in the Lower Mainland and Alberta, felt like a huge validation of the hard work and quality of the product.
9. What sets your business apart from others in the industry?
Our sodas are made with fairtrade organic cane sugar and monk fruit, vegan, gluten-free, and preservative-free. They strike a balance between health-conscious formulation and bold, adventurous and unique combo flavors.
10. What’s your favourite part about the beverage industry?
Bringing joy to people’s daily routines; there’s something special about creating a refreshing moment that’s both delicious and better for you and also having non-alc and alc options.
11. What’s your #1 motivator?
Seeing customers choose a cleaner alternative and share feedback like “this tastes like a treat without the guilt.”
12. Describe your ‘a‑ha’ moment
Realizing during a tasting with friends that our “Pineapple Mango” flavor gets a lot of compliments, proof there was space in the market for something vibrant and healthy made with minimal ingredients.
13. What’s your vision for the business?
To become a household name in natural sodas across Canada, expanding flavor offerings, pioneering sustainable packaging, and deepening partnerships with retailers and wellness-focused cafés.
14. Who could benefit from your products/services?
Health-conscious individuals, families looking for better alternatives to sugary drinks, cafés and restaurants wanting artisan soda options, and anyone seeking vibrant, low-calorie flavor without artificial ingredients.
15. What advice do you have for others starting their own business?
Start small, stay true to your vision, and be prepared to wear many hats. Building relationships—suppliers, retailers, customers—is the backbone of growth.
16. What lessons have you learned along the way?
The importance of planning—but also flexibility. Being able to pivot and adapt, whether to supply chain hiccups or shifting consumer trends, has been essential.
17. How do you achieve work/life balance?
Setting clear boundaries—getting outdoors, spending time with family and building an amazing supportive team.
18. What does supporting local mean to you?
It’s about building community and localized impact—sourcing ingredients wherever possible, employing locally, and growing alongside Canadian based cafés, shops, and customers.
19. How can people best support you right now?
- Try it—look for Gold Soda at our Lower Mainland stores. Go to https://drinkgoldsoda.com and request which other stores you would like it in. Gold Spritz can be ordered through any Beer and Wine. Please help spread the word!
- Spread the word—reviews, social posts, or just telling a friend.
Partner up—whether you’re a café, retailer, or event specialist, we’re always open to collaborations.
