Poppi Soda is a unique and growing brand in the beverage industry, celebrated for its emphasis on gut health and wellness. As a prebiotic soda that combines apple cider vinegar with natural fruit juices and probiotics, Poppi has become popular among health-conscious consumers seeking a flavorful and functional alternative to traditional sodas. From its humble beginnings to its meteoric rise, Poppi’s story is both inspiring and innovative, highlighting entrepreneurial passion and a vision to redefine the beverage market. But who owns Poppi Soda today, and how has the brand evolved since its inception?
Poppi Soda was founded by Allison Ellsworth and Stephen Ellsworth, a husband-and-wife duo from Austin, Texas, in 2015. The idea for Poppi stemmed from Allison’s personal health struggles. After experiencing persistent digestive issues, she researched natural remedies and discovered the benefits of apple cider vinegar for improving gut health. Although the vinegar worked wonders for her digestion and overall wellness, its harsh taste proved challenging to consume daily. Determined to make the experience more palatable, Allison began experimenting with recipes, blending apple cider vinegar with natural fruit juices.
Stephen joined her efforts, and together, they perfected a refreshing and healthy drink that retained the benefits of apple cider vinegar while providing a delicious taste profile. Initially, they sold their beverage at local farmers’ markets in Texas, branding it as Mother Beverage to emphasize its connection to natural and traditional ingredients. The product quickly gained popularity among local consumers, and the Ellsworths saw the potential to bring their creation to a wider audience.
The Ellsworths’ entrepreneurial journey took a major leap forward in 2018, when they appeared on ABC’s hit show Shark Tank. During their pitch, Allison and Stephen introduced their product and explained its health benefits, showcasing their passion for gut health and clean ingredients. Investor Rohan Oza, known for his expertise in the beverage industry and branding, was impressed by their vision and saw immense potential in their product. He offered them a $400,000 investment for a 25% stake in the company.
Following their Shark Tank appearance, the Ellsworths collaborated with Oza to transform their brand and broaden its appeal. The first major change was a complete rebranding—from Mother Beverage to Poppi—in 2020. The new name was shorter, catchy, and approachable, making it easier to resonate with younger, health-conscious consumers. Poppi also underwent packaging redesigns to reflect its vibrant and fun identity, incorporating bright colors and playful branding elements.
After rebranding as Poppi, the company experienced exponential growth. Poppi appealed to health-conscious millennials and Gen Z consumers seeking functional beverages that aligned with their wellness lifestyles. Its unique formula, combining prebiotics, fruit juices, and apple cider vinegar, offered health benefits while delivering enjoyable flavors such as Raspberry Rose, Orange, and Strawberry Lemon.
Poppi’s visibility skyrocketed as the Ellsworths leveraged social media, influencer partnerships, and celebrity endorsements. Prominent figures such as Hailey Bieber, Kylie Jenner, and Post Malone were seen promoting or enjoying Poppi on their platforms, which further increased its popularity among younger audiences.
Retail presence also expanded rapidly. By 2023, Poppi was available in over 120 retailers nationwide, including major grocery chains like Whole Foods, Target, and Walmart, as well as online platforms like Amazon. That year, Poppi reached $100 million in sales, marking a significant milestone in its journey.
Poppi Soda’s meteoric rise captured the attention of major beverage industry players, and in March 2025, Poppi was acquired by PepsiCo, one of the largest beverage companies in the world. The acquisition was valued at $1.65 billion, including earnout provisions based on the brand’s continued performance. PepsiCo’s decision to acquire Poppi reflects the company’s strategy to diversify its portfolio with health-oriented and functional beverage brands that cater to evolving consumer preferences.
PepsiCo’s acquisition marks a new chapter for Poppi Soda, with expanded resources, distribution networks, and marketing power. While the brand now operates under PepsiCo’s umbrella, Allison and Stephen Ellsworth remain involved in the company, continuing to guide its mission and product innovation. They expressed excitement about the acquisition, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining the integrity and quality of Poppi’s products while scaling the brand globally.
Rohan Oza’s early investment in Poppi was instrumental in shaping the brand’s trajectory. Following Shark Tank, Poppi attracted additional funding through Series A and Series B investment rounds, which helped fuel its growth. Venture capital firms specializing in consumer brands joined in supporting Poppi’s expansion, believing in the Ellsworths’ vision and product potential. These investments allowed the company to scale production, refine its branding, and enhance its distribution channels.
Oza, often referred to as the “Brandfather,” played a key role in positioning Poppi within the competitive beverage market. His experience with brands such as Vitaminwater, Smartwater, and BodyArmor gave him unique insights into the strategies needed to make Poppi a household name.
As of 2025, Poppi’s acquisition by PepsiCo has opened new doors for the brand. With access to PepsiCo’s vast distribution channels, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and marketing expertise, Poppi is poised to expand its reach domestically and internationally. PepsiCo plans to introduce Poppi to emerging markets where demand for health-oriented beverages is rapidly growing, tapping into the global shift toward functional drinks.
Despite the acquisition, Poppi remains committed to its original mission of promoting gut health and wellness through clean, effective products. The Ellsworths continue to play an active role in product development, ensuring that Poppi’s formula and brand ethos remain consistent with consumer expectations.
Allison and Stephen Ellsworth’s journey from local farmers’ markets to leading a billion-dollar brand is a story of resilience, innovation, and determination. Their ability to identify a gap in the market and develop a product that resonates with consumers has transformed the beverage industry. Today, Poppi is not just a soda—it’s a symbol of modern wellness and entrepreneurship.
Under PepsiCo’s ownership, Poppi is positioned to scale even further, introducing its health-focused beverages to new audiences while maintaining the values that made it successful. The Ellsworths’ vision lives on as Poppi continues to redefine what it means to enjoy a soda in the 21st century.
From its humble beginnings as Mother Beverage to becoming a PepsiCo-owned powerhouse, Poppi Soda has redefined the landscape of functional beverages. Its emphasis on gut health, its innovative approach to apple cider vinegar, and its vibrant branding have made it a standout in the competitive soda market. With Allison and Stephen Ellsworth’s passion and PepsiCo’s global influence, Poppi is set to continue growing, bringing its mission of wellness and flavor to consumers around the world.
Also Read: Healthy Sodas? These Refreshing Drinks Won’t Ruin Your Diet!
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