Welcome to this insightful Q&A session with Aqsa Cola, a company that goes beyond just offering a refreshing beverage it stands as a symbol of purpose, community, and ethical business.
Born out of a commitment to providing an alternative to mainstream brands, Aqsa Cola is deeply rooted in values of charity and social responsibility, particularly in supporting Palestinian and Muslim communities in need.
In this session, we dive into the story behind Aqsa Cola, what makes it unique, and the vision driving its growth.
1. Can you tell us the story behind Aqsa Cola? How did it start?
We began boycotting brands in 2024, and noticed that our family and friends were doing the same. We came up with the idea to create an alternative cola which we would happily serve at our own family events and share with friends.
It was important to us to participate in the boycott and create an alternative that we felt good about drinking – and also a business that we believed in.
We founded Aqsa Cola on a model of giving back; a portion of all profits are donated to organizations which support Palestine and other Muslim Communities in need.
2. What inspired the name “Aqsa Cola”?
We wanted the name of our company to be meaningful and to represent our business and our mission. We chose the name “Aqsa Cola” in honor of Al Aqsa Mosque – a place which has been central to Islam as the first Qibla, and one which remains part of the Palestinian territory.
3. What makes Aqsa Cola unique compared to other beverages?
Our business model is one which is rare in the food industry and business as a whole – basing ourselves on a model to give back is central to us as individuals and as a business.
Our taste is also unique! We developed a formula which is smooth and refreshing with hints of citrus and other flavors – we love it, and have been told by many that it’s a great unique taste that appeals to cola drinkers and non-cola drinkers.
Ingredients & Production
4. What are the key ingredients in Aqsa Cola?
Our ingredients are standard for many cola/sodas including sugar (or other sweeteners as in our Aqsa-Free), and natural flavors.
5. Are the drinks 100% halal-certified? If so, what steps do you take to ensure this?
Our drink is not 100% halal certified. We do whatever we can to use halal products (many ingredients are).
When that is not possible, we review the list of ingredients used to ensure that we are not using ingredients that contain substances that would be considered non-halal (example – our non-halal certified ingredients are vegan and therefore do not contain any animal products).
We obtain halal certificates from vendors who are certified.
6. Do you use any natural or organic ingredients in your products?
Our current caffeine is natural from green tea.
7. What quality control measures do you follow during production?
We source all of our own ingredients and find vendors who are able to provide quality products that meet our standards.
We visit our production facilities and have regular meetings with them to ensure that our quality standards are being met.
This close relationship allows us to make adjustments and work together to ensure that our product is meeting the expectations of our customers.
Market & Popularity
8. Who is your target audience for Aqsa Cola?
Our target audience is anyone who believes in our cause and wants to support the people of Palestine and other Muslim communities.
If you’re not a soda drinker – i’m sure you know someone who is, or you may have the opportunity to raise awareness, or purchase our cola(s) for special events.
We are also working towards expanding our products (currently regular cola and calorie/sugar free cola) to include flavors that appeal to non-cola drinkers (a caffeine free, low sugar, lemon-lime flavor).
9. How has the reception been in different markets, especially among Muslims?
We have received great feedback from everyone who has tried Aqsa Cola! Great enthusiasm for our cause and business model – and a desire to support us and enjoy our cola.
We understand for some business owners that carrying an alternative cola such as ours can be more expensive than the Coke/Pepsi options that they are able to get cheaply, and have worked with our pricing to support zero-cost upfront options for new businesses coming on board who want to test sales.
10. Have you faced any challenges promoting the brand?
We would like to reach the shelves of more retailers and work with additional businesses.
It can be challenging to connect with business owners vs. store employees, but have been adjusting to use a variety of communication methods in addition to in-person connections.
Cultural & Religious Significance
11. How does Aqsa Cola align with Islamic values?
Our business is founded on the values of compassion, charity and altruism. As business owners we believe that all people deserve compassion and respect – and live our lives to benefit others through action and deeds.
Our careers until now have been focused in medicine and nursing living our lives in the service of others.
We carry the same spirit and values of giving to others and supporting those in need however we can to Aqsa Cola by pledging a portion of our profits to Muslim communities in need in Palestine and beyond.
12. Do you see the drink as part of a broader cultural or religious movement?
It certainly could be both… we believe that respect and compassion exist outside of politics and religion, though they are central to Islam.
Our goal is to appeal to all people despite their background or religion, but united in the mission to help our communities in need to ensure food, medical supplies, and other efforts central to the well-being of our people.
Through focusing on compassion and humanity – we hope that we can touch the lives of many, and spread the values of Islam to those who may be unaware.
Future Plans
13. Are there any new flavors or products you plan to introduce?
We currently have our regular Aqsa Cola in stock; our sugar/calorie free Aqsa Cola is in production, and we are developing our lemon-lime flavor to come by early summer, inshallah.
Additional flavors will come as we get going and hear feedback from our customers.
We are also looking into formulating our drinks as drink syrups that can be available for soda fountain use – which will make it easier for restaurants and catering halls to utilize.
14. Do you have plans to expand internationally?
At this time we do not have immediate plans to expand internationally. We want to focus on expanding first within the US with a model that is sustainable and can ensure that our customers have seamless access to Aqsa Cola.
15. Where do you see Aqsa Cola in the next five years?
Inshallah, in the next five years we hope to become the “alternative cola” of choice throughout the US, and continue to expand our product line.
In terms of support, we currently are looking into reliable partnerships and channels to provide medical supplies and food to the people of Gaza.
One of our long-term goals is to participate in a medical mission.
As we wrap up this conversation with Aqsa Cola, it’s clear that this brand is more than just a drink it’s a movement.
With a strong foundation in ethical business practices, a commitment to giving back, and a focus on expanding their reach, Aqsa Cola is carving out a meaningful place in the beverage industry.
Whether you’re drawn to their mission, their unique taste, or their dedication to making a difference, Aqsa Cola is a brand to watch.
Stay tuned for their upcoming flavors and initiatives, and support businesses that align with values of compassion and community.
Reach/Contact them via this phone: (833) 375-7465 Email: [email protected]
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