Coca-Cola Is in Talks of Buying Healthy Soda Brand Poppi

The Coca-Cola Company is reportedly exploring the acquisition of Poppi, a health-conscious soda brand, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The Atlanta-based beverage giant is said to be one of several potential buyers eyeing the company, as indicated by individuals who remain anonymous due to the confidential nature of the discussions.

No definitive agreement has been reached, and insiders emphasized that the deal is still up in the air, with details regarding the terms of the potential acquisition still not up for disclosure.

Notably, a spokesperson for Coca-Cola stated that the company refrains from commenting on market rumors or speculation. Representatives from Cavu Venture Partners, an investor handling communications for Poppi, have also declined to comment.

The Rise of Poppi

Founded by Allison and Stephen Ellsworth, Poppi prides itself on offering a healthier alternative to traditional sodas, leveraging fruit juice and apple cider vinegar in its formulations.

A single can of Poppi contains approximately 25 calories, which is a stark contrast to the roughly 140 calories found in a serving of Coke Classic.

Poppi first gained recognition in 2018 under the name Mother when it secured investment from Cavu Venture Partners' Rohan Oza during an appearance on the television show Shark Tank.

Collaborations with celebrities, including actress Keleigh Teller, further propelled the brand's visibility.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Poppi (@drinkpoppi)

Poppi, though not publicly disclosing its sales figures, boasts being the leading soda brand on Amazon.

Its products are also available through prominent retailers such as Target, Costco, Kroger and Whole Foods.

Recently, the soda brand reached milestones when it made its Super Bowl ad debut and came out as the most viewed ad during the big game, with 29.1 million householuds tuning in.

Additionally, its Big Game spot was also acknowledged in several best ads lists, including Ad Age's and the New York Times'.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Poppi (@drinkpoppi)

The potential acquisition of Poppi comes amidst Coca-Cola's strategic efforts to diversify its product portfolio away from sugary beverages and towards healthier options.

Notable acquisitions in recent years include sports drink maker BodyArmor and Fairlife, a producer of ultra-filtered milk.

Additionally, Coca-Cola made headlines in 2007 with its $4.1 billion purchase of Vitaminwater. 

Editing by Katherine 'Makkie' Maclang