2023 marked a pivotal moment for Schweppes. The heritage brand was facing a steep decline. In a market shaken by inflation, increasingly dominated by private labels, and impacted by the fading gin & tonic trend, Schweppes had lost its footing. Over the past decade, the brand had drifted from its core audience of adults aged 45 and up, diluting its identity by positioning itself as just another soft drink—chasing fast-paced, energetic codes that didn’t align with its legacy.

Stuck between premium tonics and budget alternatives, Schweppes found itself in a no man’s land with eroded brand value.

To reconnect with its original audience and reset its trajectory in 2024, Schweppes reclaimed what makes it truly iconic: its ability to be savored. Unlike impulse-driven, grab-and-go sodas, Schweppes represents a more intentional experience—a drink for grown-ups, not just to be consumed, but to be appreciated. Social, aspirational, and steeped in indulgence.

First Human on Mars follows Ava, an astronaut moments from landing on Mars. Instead of following protocol, she pauses, opens a Schweppes, and savours the moment—ignoring NASA’s calls. It’s a bold, light-hearted act that sets the tone: even in history’s most high-stakes moment, you can choose to Take Your Time.

Set to a stripped-back version of David Bowie’s Space Oddity, the film builds tension around the true protagonist: time. In two follow-up episodes, Ava meets a Martian civilization—not with fear or awe, but by sharing a Schweppes Agrum and Ginger Beer, connecting worlds through wit and calm.

With cinematic visuals and Ava’s unshakable presence, Schweppes turns a space mission into a tribute to slowing down. The trilogy reminds us: even on Mars, true pleasure lies not in the rush—but in the pause.