PepsiCo positions the Poppi prebiotic soda brand as its emerging beverage powerhouse, capitalizing on sustained rapid growth since its acquisition last year.
Brand Origins and Rapid Rise
Poppi, a innovative prebiotic soda, traces its roots to founders Allison Ellsworth and her husband Stephen Ellsworth. Launched in 2018, the brand quickly gained traction with its gut-health-focused formula blending fruity flavors and prebiotic fibers from apple cider vinegar. Sales tripled annually since 2020, hitting $100 million by 2023, and momentum persists under PepsiCo’s stewardship.
PepsiCo Acquisition Fuels Ambitions
PepsiCo completed its $1.95 billion purchase of Poppi in May 2025, following an announcement in March. Executives view the acquisition as a strategic entry into the burgeoning functional beverage space, aligning with consumer demand for healthier alternatives to traditional sodas.4718
International Rollout Begins
The company now propels Poppi beyond the U.S., marking the UK as its second major international market after an initial debut in Canada. Partnering with Carlsberg, Poppi launches across Tesco stores nationwide starting March 4, 2026, and at Pret A Manger from March 5. This expansion taps into Europe’s rising interest in gut-health products.5351
Surfing the Prebiotic Trend
Prebiotic beverages represent a high-growth segment, with analysts forecasting the market to nearly double by 2030. Poppi’s bold flavors and health benefits position it to capture share amid shifting preferences toward functional drinks. PepsiCo anticipates Poppi evolving into its next billion-dollar brand.7
