Story of OLIPOP: Makes Functional Sodas that Support Digestive Health
Story of OLIPOP:
Founding Vision
OLIPOP was co-founded in 2018 by Ben Goodwin and David
Lester in Oakland, California. Goodwin serves as the CEO and lead formulator.
The brand was created to provide a functional, healthy alternative to
traditional sodas, combining great taste with digestive health benefits.
Personal Inspiration
Ben Goodwin’s journey into nutrition and wellness began at
age 14, after a personal transformation through exercise and mindful eating. He
became fascinated by the connection between diet, gut microbiome, and overall
health, which later inspired him to formulate OLIPOP.
Co-Founder Partnership
David Lester partnered with Goodwin to bring the vision of
OLIPOP to life. Together, they pooled $100,000 from a previous venture to
launch the company, aiming to make gut-friendly beverages accessible to a wider
audience.
Mission and Product Concept
OLIPOP’s mission is to revolutionize the soda market by
creating low-sugar, gut-friendly drinks. Each beverage combines prebiotics,
plant fibers, and botanicals to support digestive health, while maintaining the
nostalgic flavors of classic sodas.
Early Experiments
Before OLIPOP, Goodwin had experimented with probiotics and
fermented beverages, including kombucha and water kefir sodas. OLIPOP emerged
after thousands of hours of research and formulation to optimize taste and
microbiome benefits.
Scientific Approach
The company collaborates with global experts in human gut
microbiome research. This ensures that OLIPOP’s formulations are backed by
science, targeting digestive health, blood sugar stability, and inflammation
reduction while providing a satisfying soda experience.
Initial Launch
OLIPOP first launched with three flavors: ginger lemon,
strawberry vanilla, and cinnamon cola. In its first year, it sold in 40
Northern California stores and generated $852,000 in revenue, quickly gaining
popularity for its approachable taste and health benefits.
Story of OLIPOP: Makes Functional Sodas that Support Digestive Health#AI story#networth#investor#OLIPOP story#entrepreneur#startup#Sodas flavors
Funding and Growth
In 2019, OLIPOP raised $2.5 million in seed funding. By
2022, a Series B round brought in $39.7 million from investors including
Gwyneth Paltrow, Mindy Kaling, and the Jonas Brothers. The company’s total
funding reached $55.4 million.
Expanding Reach
OLIPOP’s distribution grew rapidly, reaching major retailers
like Target and Walmart. By 2023, the brand’s drinks were sold in over 25,000
stores, with $100 million in revenue in the first half of the year. New flavors
and collaborations, such as banana cream with Minions and peaches & cream
with Barbie, boosted consumer interest.
Product Innovation
OLIPOP now offers 16+ flavors, including classics like
vintage cola, root beer, and cream soda, as well as seasonal and promotional
editions. Each beverage is carefully designed to balance taste, low sugar, and
functional benefits for the gut.
Operations and Workforce
As of September 2023, OLIPOP employs over 100 people, with a
largely remote workforce. The company also provides subscription boxes,
delivering its drinks directly to customers and maintaining strong engagement
with its fanbase.
Future Vision
Looking ahead, OLIPOP continues to innovate in functional
beverages, exploring new flavors and formulations. The brand aims to expand
internationally to markets in Asia and Australia while maintaining its mission
to make soda healthier, delicious, and beneficial for digestive health.
Timeline of OLIPOP
- 2008-2012
– Ben Goodwin experiments with kombucha and probiotic sodas, developing
Obi.
- 2013
– Goodwin meets David Lester; they partner to expand probiotic beverage
ventures.
- 2016
– Obi is sold; the experience lays the groundwork for OLIPOP.
- 2017-2018
– OLIPOP is founded with an initial $100,000 investment.
- 2018
– First three OLIPOP flavors launched in Northern California; $852,000 in
revenue.
- 2019
– Seed funding of $2.5 million; broader distribution begins.
- 2022
– Series B funding of $39.7 million; new flavors and brand collaborations
introduced.
- 2023
– OLIPOP sold in 25,000+ stores; $100 million revenue in first half of the
year; workforce exceeds 100 employees.
- 2024
– Collaboration with Mattel for Barbie-themed peaches & cream flavor;
16+ flavors offered online.
- 2025
– Series C funding of $50 million; company valued at $1.85 billion;
products available in 50,000+ stores.
