Our Story

The origin of poppi traces back to a simple but meaningful realization: enjoying soda did not have to come with compromise. Allison Ellsworth had always appreciated the crisp, bubbly taste of traditional soft drinks, but over time she began to notice that they did not always leave her feeling as good as she wanted. Eliminating soda entirely felt impractical, yet continuing to consume something that did not align with her lifestyle also felt unsatisfying. Instead of choosing between enjoyment and well-being, she began to question whether both could exist in the same drink.

This idea sparked a period of experimentation that began in her own kitchen in Texas. Around 2015, Allison started combining different ingredients, testing how sparkling water, fruit juices, and other elements could work together to create something new. Her intention was not to replicate a typical health beverage, but to design a soda that felt fresher, lighter, and more balanced while still delivering the flavor people expect. Through trial and error, she refined her recipes, gradually building confidence in what she was creating.

Once she felt she had something worth sharing, she introduced her product at a local farmers’ market. There, it was met with genuine curiosity and positive reactions from customers. Among those who tried it was a buyer from Whole Foods, who immediately saw its potential. That early recognition suggested that this concept addressed a broader demand. It was not just a personal solution, but something that could appeal to many people seeking an alternative approach to soda.

A major step forward came when Allison and her husband Stephen had the opportunity to present their product on Shark Tank. Despite being in the final stages of pregnancy, Allison embraced the challenge and traveled to Los Angeles to share their story. Their presentation went beyond describing a beverage; it focused on redefining an entire category. Their passion and perspective resonated strongly, resulting in a partnership with investor and beverage expert Rohan Oza. His involvement provided strategic direction and industry insight, helping guide the brand toward wider growth.

Following this momentum, the brand evolved and was reintroduced as poppi. The new identity reflected a sense of energy, creativity, and modern appeal. It quickly began expanding into retail locations, attracting consumers who appreciated both the taste and the idea behind it. The brand’s philosophy centered on balance rather than restriction, encouraging people to enjoy soda in a way that felt aligned with their lifestyle.

As its presence grew, poppi became increasingly visible in popular culture. Influencers, artists, and athletes began incorporating it into their daily routines, helping amplify its reach. Social media played a key role in building awareness, turning the product into more than just a drink. It became associated with self-expression, shared experiences, and a fresh perspective on everyday habits. Over time, poppi achieved notable milestones, including strong performance on major online platforms and the launch of creative campaigns that captured public attention.

The brand continued to explore new ways of connecting with its audience through collaborations, events, and marketing initiatives that blended elements of lifestyle and design. These efforts reinforced its identity as something beyond a traditional beverage, positioning it as part of a broader cultural shift.

In 2025, poppi entered a new phase by becoming part of the PepsiCo portfolio. This development marked a significant moment in its journey, providing access to expanded resources and a larger global platform. With this support, the brand set its sights on reaching even more people while continuing to evolve.

Today, poppi stands as an example of how familiar products can be reimagined. It reflects the idea that enjoyment and mindful choices do not have to be in conflict. By offering a modern take on soda, it invites people to rediscover the simple pleasure of flavor and fizz in a way that feels both refreshing and relevant.