A device which adds an extra wow factor to cocktails has taken the international market by storm after being inspired by a childhood of blowing bubbles.
Flavour Blaster Pro, which creates a smoke-filled fragrant bubble on the top of drinks, can be found at some of the world’s top bars and at celebrity parties.
Its success – which has seen it exported to more than 40 countries – is the result of a collaboration between hospitality entrepreneur Colin Myers and manufacturing guru Robert Flunder, who came up with the initial concept to add theatricality to the drinking experience.
Australian-born Colin – who previously worked in the bar and leisure industry in the UK – spent four years helping to develop the product, which he describes as “an inner child gadget”. The final creation was the culmination of a fascination with the concept of edible bubbles which use authentic aromas rather than synthetic flavours.
“I’d always had a concept in my head about edible bubbles,” said Colin, who runs the business from a former printworks in Sunderland. “It started to develop when the vaping craze started. We could see a way to use that kind of technology to develop something that would give a wow factor to the food and drink industry.”
The Flavour Blaster Pro has since become a huge hit and is being used in some of the world’s most prestigious bars and clubs.
Clients include The Alchemist chain and the world-famous Maybe Sammy bar in Sydney as well as several locations in the US, while the device is also playing a key role in the immersive experience at Johnny Walker in Edinburgh.
“The reception it has had since day one has been phenomenal,” said Colin. “It’s a real showstopper which has had a huge impact.”
The team works alongside a New York-based company to prepare its aromas, which are distilled from fruits, herbs and spices.
The success of the Flavour Blaster Pro led to the recent launch of a mini version for home use, while the 15-strong staff and R&D team are working on a number of other new products.
“Since day one, the Flavour Blaster has just caught everyone’s imagination,” said Colin. “It’s the ultimate in theatrical mixology.”
