Poppi is making its debut in the UK, marking the brand’s first international foray following its success in the US. With PepsiCo’s backing, this expansion aims to cater to a growing demand for innovative soft drinks.
US Viral Soda Brand Enters the UK Market
The contemporary soda brand, supported by PepsiCo, will launch in select Tesco stores and Pret A Manger outlets across the country starting 5 March, with plans for a broader distribution later in the year.
This introduction brings poppi’s low-sugar, low-calorie beverages to the UK, aligning with increasing consumer interest in healthier soft drink options.
A Decade of Poppi
Founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife team Allison and Stephen Ellsworth, Poppi began with Allison mixing fruit juice, apple cider vinegar, and sparkling water in her Texas kitchen to create a soda alternative that captured the essence of traditional soft drinks.
The company emphasizes that its product delivers full-flavor carbonation while remaining low in sugar and calories and high in fiber.
Initially known as Mother Beverage after a feature on the Shark Tank television show in 2018, the brand was rebranded as poppi in 2020 to appeal to a younger audience.
“Launching poppi in the U.K. is incredibly meaningful to me,” expressed Allison Ellsworth, Co-Founder of poppi. “When we started poppi, our goal was simple: create a soda people could feel good about drinking. Seeing poppi find a new home in the U.K. is a proud moment for our entire team. We’re excited about this next chapter and can’t wait to be part of a new community.”
Five Flavours Debut in UK Retail and Foodservice
The launch in the UK features five flavours: Strawberry Lemon, Raspberry Rose, Lemon Lime, Wild Berry, and Orange.
These drinks blend fruit juice, sparkling water, and apple cider vinegar, resulting in a low-calorie soda containing no more than five grams of sugar per can, according to the company.
Poppi has gained significant consumer awareness in the US through effective social media engagement, eye-catching packaging, and its positioning as a modern alternative to traditional soft drinks.
PepsiCo Backs International Expansion
PepsiCo supports the UK launch, highlighting a growing consumer interest in modern soft drinks with balanced nutritional profiles.
In 2025, PepsiCo completed its acquisition of poppi for $1.95 billion, signifying a crucial step in its ongoing portfolio transformation and commitment to offering appealing modern beverages that resonate with evolving consumer preferences.
“poppi launching in the UK is a hugely exciting moment for the category,” stated Natalia Fillipociants, General Manager Europe International Beverages at PepsiCo. “The brand has already built remarkable traction in the US, and we’re now bringing that same energy and consumer appeal to UK shelves. Shoppers are actively seeking soft drinks that offer great flavour and a modern brand story – and poppi delivers on both. With its vibrant packaging, bold flavour lineup and proven ability to attract consumers, poppi gives retailers a high-impact proposition that stands out immediately in-store.”
Growing Demand for Modern Soda Alternatives
This UK launch represents poppi’s initial step beyond the US, signaling its aspiration for international growth.
Poppi aims to “revolutionise soda for the next generation,” positioning itself within a growing segment of beverages that merge the enjoyment of soft-drink flavors with ingredients linked to a healthier lifestyle.
Carlsberg Britvic Grows Soft-Drinks Presence
Under a long-standing bottling agreement with PepsiCo, Carlsberg Britvic will oversee the brand’s launch, aiming to strengthen its presence in the soft-drinks category and meet changing consumer demands.
“poppi launching in the UK is a hugely exciting moment for the category,” remarked Munnawar Chishty, Chief Marketing Officer, Carlsberg Britvic.
“The brand has already built remarkable traction in the US and we’re now bringing that same energy and consumer appeal to UK shelves. Shoppers are actively seeking soft drinks that offer great flavour and a modern brand story – and poppi delivers on both. With its vibrant packaging, bold flavour lineup, and proven ability to attract consumers, poppi provides retailers a high-impact proposition that stands out in-store.”
Key Takeaways
- Poppi is launching in the UK with five flavors: Strawberry Lemon, Raspberry Rose, Lemon Lime, Wild Berry, and Orange.
- The soft drinks contain only five grams of sugar or less per can.
- Poppi blends traditional soft drink enjoyment with healthier ingredients.
- Supported by PepsiCo, this launch reflects a shift towards modern, nutritious beverages.
- Poppi aims to revolutionize soda for the next generation.
FAQ
What is Poppi?
Poppi is a modern soda brand that combines fruit juice, sparkling water, and apple cider vinegar to create low-sugar beverages.
Where can I find Poppi drinks in the UK?
Poppi will be available in select Tesco stores and Pret A Manger locations starting 5 March.
What flavors does Poppi offer?
Poppi’s UK launch features five flavors: Strawberry Lemon, Raspberry Rose, Lemon Lime, Wild Berry, and Orange.
Who supports the launch of Poppi in the UK?
The launch is backed by PepsiCo and facilitated by Carlsberg Britvic under a bottling agreement.
What distinguishes Poppi from traditional sodas?
Poppi aims to provide full-flavor carbonation while being low in sugar and high in fiber, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
