Business

26-Year-Old Entrepreneur’s Salaam Cola Expands Worldwide, Offering a Purpose-Driven Alternative

By: Jastine Beatrice Yap

Summary: Salaam Cola, founded by 26-year-old Aykiz Shah, has expanded to 14 countries in under a year. With a portion of profits supporting conflict-affected communities, the halal-certified drink presents a values-based option that is resonating with consumers around the world.

(Turkey /April 2025) —In less than a year since its founding, Salaam Cola, the flagship product of Salaam Beverages Co. Limited, has launched in 14 countries across four continents, positioning itself as a unique entrant in the global soft drink market. Founded by 26-year-old Irish entrepreneur Aykiz Shah, the company is seeking to make a difference through a business model that integrates humanitarian support and ethical principles.

Established in Ireland in 2023, Salaam Cola allocates 10% of its profits to initiatives aimed at assisting conflict-affected communities in regions such as Palestine, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon. In partnership with UK-registered charity Muslims in Need, the brand has contributed to projects such as building a school for displaced Palestinian children in Egypt, supporting life-saving medical care for over 10,000 patients, helping provide food and shelter in crisis zones, and aiding in the reconstruction of a mosque in Syria.

“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,” says Shah. “Salaam Cola is more than a beverage — it represents a way to contribute to positive change globally.”

The brand has gained attention not just for its mission, but for its product quality — earning halal certification and garnering positive feedback from consumers of various backgrounds. With operations now in Ireland, the UK, the USA, France, Germany, Singapore, Malaysia, and more, Salaam Cola is experiencing steady growth and has shared intentions to enter 10 additional markets by 2026.

“We didn’t come to play. We came to disrupt,” says Shah. “If our presence encourages reflection or change within the industry, it suggests we’re making a meaningful impact.”

Despite receiving some criticism for its vocal support of humanitarian causes, Salaam Cola emphasizes transparency, regularly sharing updates and documentation of its charitable initiatives online. The company has been part of a broader rise in halal beverage alternatives and continues to be seen by many as a leader in this emerging segment.

As Salaam Cola looks to the future, Shah says the focus remains on thoughtful growth and community-centered impact. Plans include the launch of regional production hubs — a move expected to generate local employment opportunities and enhance the company’s engagement with emerging markets.

Visit www.salaamcola.com to learn more about Salaam Cola’s international expansion, products, and charitable partnerships.

About Salaam Cola

Salaam Cola is a brand of Salaam Beverages Co. Limited, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. The company launched Salaam Cola in 2023 to produce halal-certified soft drinks and dedicate a portion of its profits to global humanitarian initiatives. Salaam Cola currently operates in over a dozen countries and is working toward further expansion by 2026.

Salaam Cola — More than a drink. It’s a movement with a mission.