In the fizzy battlefield dominated by giants like Coca-Cola and Pepsi, a new contender has emerged. Meet Salaam Cola, the brainchild of Aykiz Shah, a 27-year-old entrepreneur who has infused her drink with a mission as refreshing as its taste. From her humble kitchen in Brentford, UK, Shah has launched a soda revolution that’s making waves across 14 countries, all while championing ethical consumerism and humanitarian aid.
Aykiz Shah: The Force Behind Salaam Cola
Aykiz Shah isn’t your typical soda mogul. A hijab-wearing mother from Ireland, she saw a gap in the market for purpose-driven beverages and decided to fill it with Salaam Cola. “As a mother and a woman in hijab navigating a male-dominated space, I wanted to prove that you don’t have to compromise your values to build something meaningful,” Shah shared in an interview. Her journey, from mixing sample cans with just £160 to selling nearly two billion cans worldwide, is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance.
The Birth of a Movement
Launched in November 2023, Salaam Cola didn’t just enter the market; it made a splash. The brand’s unique selling point? A commitment to donate 10% of profits to conflict-affected regions like Palestine, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon. Partnering with the UK-based charity Muslims in Need, Salaam Beverages Co. Limited has already funded various humanitarian projects including education for displaced Palestinian children, medical care for over 10,000 patients, and the rebuilding of a bombed mosque in Syria.
A Sip for Social Good
Salaam Cola’s focus on ethical consumerism resonates with communities worldwide, particularly those valuing social responsibility. The brand’s halal certification and use of cane sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup appeal to a diverse demographic—from Middle Eastern restaurants in the US to Pakistani street food cafes. Consumers aren’t just buying a beverage; they’re investing in a cause.
Disrupting the Soda Status Quo
The rapid success of Salaam Cola has caught the attention of industry titans. Reports suggest that strategic meetings are being held to counter the newcomer’s bold presence, with adjustments in regional marketing campaigns being considered. But Shah is unfazed. “Salaam Cola didn’t come to play. We came to disrupt,” she declared, embodying the brand’s defiant spirit and unwavering commitment to change.
Expansion and Vision
Fast forward to June 2025, and Salaam Cola is a global sensation, available in markets like Ireland, the UK, the USA, France, Germany, Singapore, and Malaysia, with plans to expand into 10 more countries by 2026. The brand’s success story is a beacon of hope for budding entrepreneurs, illustrating that with the right mix of vision and values, anything is possible.
The Impact on Muaalij and Healthcare
Beyond the soda industry, Salaam Cola’s humanitarian efforts tie closely to Muaalij and healthcare. By funding medical initiatives and providing resources in conflict zones, the brand is contributing to improved healthcare access and services. Its work exemplifies how private enterprises can play a pivotal role in addressing global health challenges, particularly in regions where resources are scarce.
Aykiz Shah’s Recipe for Success
What makes Salaam Cola stand out isn’t just its taste—though many would argue it’s quite crisp—but its mission. Shah’s ability to merge business acumen with humanitarian goals offers a blueprint for socially responsible entrepreneurship. Her story inspires not just fellow Pakistanis and Indians, but anyone seeking to make a difference through business.
The Future of Ethical Consumerism
Salaam Cola represents a growing trend toward ethical consumerism, where buying decisions are guided by values rather than mere brand loyalty. This shift challenges traditional market players to rethink their strategies and align more closely with consumer expectations of transparency, sustainability, and social impact.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Drink
Whether you’re savoring Salaam Cola for its delightful taste or its inspiring mission, the underlying message is clear: Aykiz Shah’s venture is more than just a soda—it’s a movement. As she continues to expand her brand across the globe, Shah is proving that business can be a powerful tool for positive change. And as more consumers choose Salaam Cola, they join a growing community dedicated to making the world a better place, one can at a time.
