Cadence #83 ~ The Soda Revolution

Welcome back to another edition of the Cadence newsletter! This week, we’re diving into the fizzy, flavor-packed world of Olipop, the soda alternative shaking up the beverage industry. From its humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in health-conscious beverages, Olipop is rewriting the rules of what soda can be.

Olipop is redefining what soda can be—combining nostalgic flavors with a health-conscious approach. Whether you’re already a fan or just curious, their story highlights how innovation and thoughtful branding can create a niche in even the most established industries.

Olipop

Olipop is a soda alternative marketed as “A New Kind of Soda.” It blends plant-based ingredients, prebiotics, and dietary fiber into nostalgic soda flavors like Root Beer and Cola. Founded in 2018 by Ben Goodwin and David Lester, Olipop was designed to offer a satisfying, fizzy experience while supporting digestive health.

Where the Name Comes From

• "Oli" refers to oligosaccharides, prebiotics included to support gut health.
• "Pop" is a nod to soda’s classic nickname, “soda pop.”

Olipop’s formula is vegan, gluten-free, GMO-free, and lower in sugar than traditional sodas, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a balance between flavor and health.

What Makes Olipop Stand Out?

Olipop’s appeal lies in its careful formulation and approachable flavors. The company’s OLISmart blend includes prebiotics, plant fibers, and botanicals to support gut health. Natural sweeteners like cassava root syrup and stevia leaf keep the flavor sweet without added sugars.

Popular flavors include:

• Vintage Cola
• Classic Root Beer
• Tropical Punch
• Classic Grape

By offering familiar soda flavors, Olipop invites consumers to enjoy a soda-like experience with a more health-conscious twist.

The Journey to Market

Olipop’s co-founders, Ben Goodwin and David Lester, entered the beverage industry with a focus on health and wellness. After experimenting with another venture, they shifted gears in 2018 to develop Olipop. Their goal was to create a product that balanced taste with health benefits, combining modern nutrition science with nostalgic soda flavors.

While breaking into the soda market posed challenges, their strategy of blending classic flavors with health-focused branding helped Olipop gain traction.

Strategies Behind Olipop’s Growth

1. Leveraging Modern Marketing

Olipop embraced platforms like TikTok early on, where they connected with younger audiences through relatable content. They also partnered with influencers and celebrities to increase brand visibility.

2. Focus on Science

Collaborating with microbiome researchers from universities like Purdue and Baylor, Olipop ensured its formulas were grounded in credible science. This has helped them build trust with health-conscious consumers.

3. Appealing Branding

Olipop’s packaging highlights key attributes like “vegan” and “non-GMO” in a clean, nostalgic design. This approach resonates with consumers who want a familiar soda experience with added health benefits.

Olipop is steadily growing, with sales projected to reach $200 million by the end of the year. The company continues to develop new flavors and expand its market presence. While other soda alternatives are entering the space, Olipop remains a key player in this evolving category.

Thanks for reading this edition of the Cadence newsletter!