The co-founder of Olipop, Ben Goodwin, established the brand in 2018 with a mission to revolutionize the $97 billion soda industry by offering a healthier alternative. As beverage giants like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo expand their presence in the better-for-you category, Goodwin is investing heavily to substantiate his company’s nutritional claims.
Goodwin emphasized the importance of health and wellness brands proving their claims, especially when charging a premium for their products. The lack of transparency in the better-for-you soda sector prompted Olipop to conduct a company-funded study, which demonstrated that their Vintage Cola resulted in a better blood sugar response compared to traditional cola brands. The company is continuing research to further validate Olipop’s health benefits.
Olipop’s offerings, such as Strawberry Vanilla and Cream Soda, contain up to 5 grams of sugar, fewer than 50 calories, and are enriched with prebiotic fiber for gut health. Beyond promoting the product’s health attributes, Goodwin believes that the studies provide credibility and differentiation in a competitive market.
With Olipop turning profitable in 2024 and experiencing rapid growth, the company is well-positioned in the better-for-you soda space. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier options, Olipop and competitor Poppi have seen significant success, attracting both new shoppers and existing soda enthusiasts.
Despite the entry of major players like PepsiCo and Coca-Cola into the market, Goodwin remains optimistic about Olipop’s future. The company’s sustained growth and commitment to health-focused innovation set it apart as a leader in the evolving beverage industry.
Reflecting on Olipop’s journey, Goodwin expressed confidence in the brand’s continued success, stating, “We are the creators of the category and the most authentic player with the most long-term vision.”