In a game-changing move for the beverage industry, PepsiCo Inc. announced Monday that it will acquire Poppi, the prebiotic soda brand that skyrocketed to fame after securing investment on ABC’s Shark Tank. The $1.65 billion deal reflects the growing consumer shift toward health-conscious alternatives and PepsiCo’s aggressive strategy to stay ahead of evolving market trends.
The acquisition, which includes an estimated $300 million in anticipated tax benefits for a total price tag of $1.95 billion, also comes with a potential post-closing earnout, hinting at even bigger aspirations for the brand’s future.
The Rise of Poppi: From Kitchen Experiment to Industry Disruptor
Poppi wasn’t born in a corporate boardroom—it started in a kitchen. Created by Allison and Stephen Ellsworth under the original name Mother Beverage, the brand was fueled by a simple mission: to craft a soda that tasted great without the usual artificial ingredients and excessive sugar.
Poppi’s formula—low in calories, low in sugar, and infused with prebiotics, fruit juice, and apple cider vinegar—hit a nerve with health-conscious consumers. With 14 bold flavors like Classic Cola, Root Beer, Strawberry Lemon, and Ginger Lime, the brand quickly gained a devoted following.
The real breakthrough came in 2018 when Poppi made its Shark Tank debut. Investor Rohan Oza, known for his ability to spot disruptive brands, saw the potential and, alongside CAVU Consumer Partners, helped propel the company into the national spotlight.
“Poppi is a true testament to the American Dream,” Oza said in a statement. “We’re beyond thrilled to be partnering with PepsiCo so that even more consumers across America, and the world, can enjoy Poppi—a truly modern soda for the next generation.”
