She continued, “I hope our story inspires others to explore their passions, take the risk, and believe that anything is possible.”
Poppi Had Challenges
Despite its success, Poppi has faced obstacles.
In June 2024, the brand was hit with a class-action lawsuit from a California woman who alleged that Poppi falsely advertised its health benefits and prebiotic properties. The case resulted in an $8.9 million settlement, which is currently awaiting court approval.
Additionally, Poppi’s recent Super Bowl marketing campaign sparked controversy. The brand gifted personal vending machines stocked with Poppi to select influencers, a move that drew backlash due to the machines’ $25,000 price tag and their exclusive placement in influencers’ homes rather than hospitals or schools.
Following the criticism, Allison Ellsworth addressed the concerns in a Feb. 10 TikTok.
“This vending machine campaign was put into place to bring awareness to the biggest soda moment of the year—the Super Bowl,” she explained. “We wanted to share Poppi with creators across the U.S. who were hosting Super Bowl parties for their friends and their family.”
