Our Story

The origin of poppi can be traced back to a simple but meaningful realization: enjoying soda did not have to come with a sense of compromise. Allison Ellsworth had always appreciated the taste and effervescence of traditional sodas, yet over time she noticed that many of them no longer aligned with how she wanted to feel. Giving up soda entirely did not seem practical, but continuing to drink something that felt overly heavy or unbalanced also did not feel right. This led her to rethink the experience and consider whether it was possible to create a beverage that offered both enjoyment and a more thoughtful approach to ingredients.

Motivated by this idea, Allison began experimenting in her kitchen in Texas in 2015. She spent countless hours blending different elements, testing combinations of fruit juices, sparkling water, and functional ingredients in search of a better balance. Her intention was not to design a traditional health drink, but rather to reinvent soda in a way that felt lighter and more refreshing while still delivering the bold flavor and carbonation people expect. Through persistence and trial and error, she gradually refined her recipe, guided by both intuition and a growing belief in the concept she was developing.

Once she felt confident in the product, Allison decided to introduce it to others. She brought her creation to a local farmers’ market, offering samples to shoppers and gathering honest feedback. The response was encouraging, and one encounter in particular stood out when a buyer from Whole Foods tasted the drink and immediately saw its potential. This moment helped validate the idea that there was a broader audience interested in a new type of soda that could fit more naturally into modern lifestyles.

A major breakthrough came when Allison and her husband Stephen were given the opportunity to present their brand on Shark Tank. Despite the challenge of Allison being in the final stages of pregnancy, they traveled to Los Angeles to share their vision. Their presentation focused not only on the product itself but also on the larger idea of reshaping the soda category. Their enthusiasm and clarity resonated strongly, leading to a partnership with investor Rohan Oza, whose expertise in the beverage industry provided valuable direction and support.

With this partnership, the brand evolved and was eventually reintroduced as poppi. The new name and identity reflected a sense of energy, creativity, and a fresh perspective on soda. As the brand expanded into retail locations across the United States, it quickly attracted attention from consumers who were drawn to both its taste and its message. Poppi positioned itself as a beverage that allowed people to enjoy soda without feeling restricted or conflicted, emphasizing balance rather than extremes.

As its popularity increased, poppi began to gain visibility within popular culture. Influencers, artists, athletes, and other public figures embraced the brand, helping to spread its presence through social media and everyday use. It became more than just a drink, evolving into a recognizable part of lifestyle and personal expression. Along the way, the company achieved significant milestones, including strong performance on major e-commerce platforms and the launch of creative marketing campaigns that captured widespread attention.

The brand continued to innovate by exploring new ways to connect with its audience, including immersive experiences, bold advertising initiatives, and collaborations that extended beyond beverages into areas like fashion and culture. These efforts reinforced its identity as a brand that was not only changing the formulation of soda but also redefining how it is perceived and enjoyed.

In 2025, poppi reached an important stage in its journey by becoming part of the PepsiCo family. This development opened the door to greater resources and a wider global presence, setting the stage for continued growth. Today, poppi stands as an example of how a familiar product category can be reimagined. It reflects the idea that enjoying soda does not have to be tied to outdated expectations, but can instead be approached in a way that feels modern, balanced, and genuinely enjoyable.