As Prohibition went into effect across America in May of 1920, breweries closed—and soda production opened. Many breweries like Miller and Anheuser-Busch shifted their focus to bottling soft drinks, with local companies like Akron’s NORKA beginning production of flavored sodas. NORKA offered eight flavors and saw peak production in the 1930s, showcasing the community's strong preference for these beverages during that era of prohibition. NORKA eventually closed in 1962 but was revived in 2015, drawing on nostalgia and local pride.
The revival of NORKA soda taps into the nostalgia and civic pride of Akron, appealing to those who missed the brand's core flavors like orange, cherry-strawberry, ginger ale, and root beer. The modern version emphasizes natural flavoring and cane sugar, striking a balance between classic taste and contemporary demands for healthier ingredients. This has contributed significantly to its community support and resurgence, making it a great example of how local brands can successfully evolve and rekindle their historical roots.
For those interested in trying NORKA today, it’s mainly distributed in the Akron area but can also be found at specialty soda shops across the country, ensuring it remains accessible beyond its local origins. This includes specific locations like High Tide Soda in Michigan and Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop in Pennsylvania, as well as in many nostalgic restaurants and gift shops, including Cracker Barrel, where one can find NORKA’s popular cherry-strawberry flavor.
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