Merchant spotlight: Gin In A Tin

At needi, we have a soft spot for a great story, beautiful design, and products made with real heart. So when Gin In A Tin came along, we were instantly hooked.

Think award-winning London Dry Gin, wrapped in stunning tins that open like little books and build into a colourful collection known as The United Colours of Juniper. It’s sustainable, tactile, and a joy to gift, or keep, if you’re feeling tempted.

We caught up with founder Charlotte Lyon to hear how this brilliant British brand is reimagining the spirits world, one thoughtfully designed, collectable tin at a time.

Business: Gin In A Tin

Founder: Charlotte Lyon

Location: UK

1. What inspired you to start your business?

Established in 2016, amongst a saturated market, Gin In A Tin was launched to educate spirit enthusiasts about London Dry Gin and disrupt the alcoholic beverage industry with unique and sustainable packaging. As the name suggests, our packaging is all about metal. Today, eight years on, the industry is looking to us for inspiration.

2. What's the biggest lesson you've learnt so far on your journey?

The biggest lesson we have learned on our journey is the importance of staying true to your vision while being open to creativity and collaboration. When we first started Gin In A Tin, we wanted to create something original that combined exceptional gin with innovative packaging. Along the way, we realised that passion alone is not enough; listening to our customers, experimenting with flavours and design, and embracing bold ideas are what allow a brand to stand out in a crowded market.

3. What makes your business special?

Gin In A Tin is special because everything we do is rooted in care, creativity and a genuine love for great gin. We are a friendly, close-knit team, and that spirit runs through every part of what we create. All of our products are made in Britain. We value craftsmanship and attention to detail, which in turn shapes everything we do.

Our presentation is something we hold close to our hearts. Every gin is packaged in a tactile tin styled like a book, inviting people to build their own colourful collection known as 'The United Colours Of Juniper'. Our tins are designed not only to look beautiful on a shelf but also to be cherished long after the gin is gone.

From super cute miniatures to large 5 litre tins, thoughtful gift sets, flexible subscription packages, vibrant individual tins and personalised tins featuring hand-drawn artwork, we create something for everyone. We believe good business should be enjoyable, approachable and memorable, and we pour that belief into every product we make.

4. What's your favourite product and why?

It is really hard to pick a favourite because we have so many that we love, but a few really stand out. Gin No.2, with its bright notes of lemon peel, coriander, and cardamom, is one of our bestsellers and a firm favourite for its fresh, zesty character that appeals to both gin enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Gin No.17, with fig, sage, and thyme, is another highlight, offering a beautifully balanced, aromatic experience. We also love our gift sets, like Four Gins for a Mr Fantastic, and our personalised tin range, which allows people to make the experience of giving or collecting gin truly bespoke.

Ultimately, what makes each gin special is the craftsmanship, seasonal botanicals, and the story behind it, so it is impossible to choose just one.

5. What's the top piece of advice you would give to fellow small business owners?

The top piece of advice we would give to a fellow small business owner is to stay true to your vision while remaining adaptable. Running a business is not for the faint of heart - passion and creativity are essential. But listening to your customers, experimenting, and being willing to take calculated and creative risks are what help a brand grow and stand out.

6. What's the most memorable gift you've ever received?

Engagement ring!

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