Charles William Brodie gained control of the George Cooper aerated water business in Thorndon Quay when he married Mrs. Cooper in April 1888. The marriage was reported by the 'New Zealand Mail' on 27th April 1888.

Brodie's factory was substantial. The wood and iron building contained over 2500 feet of floor area. The machinery, which comprised of bottling racks and corking and aerating machines, was driven by water power and the trade extended across the city and into the country districts.

A well-known drink, unique to the firm was "Brodie's Beer", a special brew of ginger ale.

In 1906 the C.W. Brodie business was purchased by A.J. Saunders.