Latest news with #OLIPOP
Forbes
14-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
OLIPOP's LA Pop-Up Is Instagram Bait—And That's The Point
Olipop's LA drive-through experience celebrated the return of its Orange Cream flavor. Functional soda brand OLIPOP debuted its first-ever OLIPOP Drive-Thru pop-up in Los Angeles this week, held at a converted lot on Beverly Blvd, to celebrate the seasonal return of its Orange Cream flavor. But more than a launch party, the activation was a strategic play at the intersection of nostalgia, wellness, and viral culture—three pillars that are increasingly driving purchase behavior in the functional CPG space. To accomplish this, the pop-up invited fans to sample inventive OLIPOP mocktails on the drive-through menu, including Cereal Milk Soda, Dirty Protein Soda, and even Spicy Pickle Soda. Limited-edition merchandise was another focal point of the event, and attendees were welcomed to participate in the brand's collaboration with Crocs, featuring orange platform Crocs and a soda-themed Jibbitz charm bar where they could choose from brand-themed accessories. Embroidered tees and tanks were also available on-site, and guests could customize their pieces with their initials or an OLIPOP-themed flavor icon. Those who attended the event could also take home other pop-up-themed items, such as branded air fresheners, a CD, and tote bags. Not wanting to exclude those who couldn't attend in person, OLIPOP also launched a Virtual Drive-Thru running through May 19 online, which offers fans a chance to win limited-edition kits and 12-packs of Orange Cream. The digital layer helped drive direct-to-consumer traffic, capture first-party data, and amplify national awareness—all crucial metrics for retailers evaluating a brand's marketability. For Nate Rosen, founder of Express Checkout and a CPG consultant, OLIPOP's approach is emblematic of a larger trend that helps brands create moments for visual content that performs well across social media, sometimes even presenting opportunities for virality. 'I love these types of brand activations; they create memorable experiences that deepen the connection consumers have with the brand,' he said. 'Even if it's a one-off, it makes the brand feel more tangible and real.' Experiential marketing moments are not a new tactic for OLIPOP; last year, it launched the 'Dream Job Contest,' which awarded two content creators the opportunity to get paid to travel and create content for the brand during the summer months. According to Kendall Dickieson, social media consultant and creator of the No Filter newsletter, this kind of experiential marketing is becoming table stakes for brands that want to build community both online and off. 'At the end of the day, if you're building online, you should be able to show up offline,' she said. '[In-person gatherings] are important for community building, especially when you know you have a community that will show up and show out.' That in-person turnout is crucial, but so is the content it generates. Dickieson went on to say that events like these work to generate more social media tags, thus increasing a brand's surface area for potential buyers, customers, and followers. With this latest activation, OLIPOP isn't just selling soda—it's selling a story, a moment, and excitement. For retailers looking to bring more buzz to their brands, it seems the future of functional CPG is rooted in fun, flashy, and highly photogenic activations.
New York Post
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Inside OLIPOP's first-ever soda drive-thru in LA: Orange Cream is back
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. This May, OLIPOP — the brand known for reinventing soda with gut-friendly fiber and only 2-5 grams of sugar — is bringing a sweet surprise to Los Angeles. To mark the much-anticipated return of its fan-favorite Orange Cream flavor, OLIPOP will launch its first-ever soda drive-thru experience on Monday, May 12th. The immersive pop-up event will offer free mocktail creations, exclusive merchandise and more to soda lovers in the heart of LA. Let's face it, we're pretty excited to celebrate the return of the Orange Cream flavor. Located at 4450 Beverly Blvd, the OLIPOP Drive-Thru will be open from 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. PST for one day only. Visitors can enter by car or on foot and snag one free drink per guest while supplies last. Designed to blend retro fun with today's viral beverage trends, the event promises an afternoon of nostalgia and innovation in equal measure. And yes, as mentioned, the cult-favorite Orange Cream flavor among OLIPOP fans is finally back by popular demand. Its deliciously creamy vanilla base and zesty citrus notes make us all nostalgic for childhood summers, ice cream trucks and orange popsicles. After an overwhelming number of requests for its return, OLIPOP is making Orange Cream a permanent fixture in its lineup — and the brand is celebrating big. OLIPOP At the drive-thru, guests will enjoy not only a free Orange Cream soda but also have the chance to try a lineup of trendy mocktails. These include DIY Dirty Sodas, social media-famous Sleepy Girl drinks and other functional twists on popular internet beverages. It's a creative homage to the playful spirit of soda culture, now elevated with health-forward ingredients. If you can't experience the LA experience, you can still purchase the Orange Cream flavor online while supplies last. It retails for $36 for 12 cans. The experience doesn't stop in LA. From May 12 to 19, fans nationwide can join the celebration online through OLIPOP's Virtual Drive-Thru. Open daily from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. PST, the virtual activation offers the chance to win exclusive prizes, including the OLIPOP Drive-Thru Kit and cases of the beloved Orange Cream flavor. Winners of the Virtual Drive-Thru giveaway will receive one of two prizes: a 12-pack of Orange Cream or the all-new Drive-Thru Kit. The latter comes with everything needed to craft Dirty Protein Sodas and viral mocktails at home, thanks to partnerships with wellness brands Koia, Pomona Organics and Moon Juice. It's a creative way to bring the LA drive-thru magic right into your kitchen. Those interested in entering the virtual experience simply need to submit their name and email address at OLIPOP will notify winners within 48 hours, giving 1,000 lucky participants the chance to sip something special without leaving home. Adding to the celebration, OLIPOP is offering a limited-time sitewide discount. Fans can use the promo code DRIVETHRU20 at checkout on the brand's website to enjoy 20% off all products. It's the perfect excuse to stock up on favorites or try Orange Cream for the first time. OLIPOP As OLIPOP continues to grow its massive consumer fanbase, this drive-thru marks an exciting milestone in the brand's evolution. With its unique blend of nostalgia, wellness and viral flair, it's a testament to its mission: to reimagine soda in a way that's both fun and functional. Whether you're cruising through the drive-thru in LA or joining virtually from home, this event is a toast to good vibes, bold flavors and a new era of soda. The countdown is on — Orange Cream is back, and it's better than ever. For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.
Daily Mail
02-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Get ready for summer with Olipop's mouth watering mocktails and get 20% OFF with this exclusive code
One OLIPOP on the rocks please! Viral healthy soda brand OLIPOP is back with yet another exciting activation, this time for Los Angeles residents. Though you may be familiar with their most popular flavors, such as Strawberry Vanilla and Root Beer, the brand's newest pop-up, the OLIPOP Mocktail Drive-Thru, takes prebiotic sodas to a whole new level. OLIPOP SODA Get ready for summer sips with 20% OFF everything OLIPOP! From their soda dupes to their original flavors, OLIPOP puts the fun back in being healthy. Enjoy creative mocktails and a happier gut when you stock up on these delicious cans. Use code DRIVETHRU20 at check out to activate your savings! 20% OFF Sitewide Shop On Monday, May 12, you can indulge at the FREE pop-up in L.A., where unique viral mocktail recipes will be brought to life! The exciting event is open to the public and includes several interactive opportunities, including a DIY Dirty Soda station. But for all you non-Californian folks like us, do not fear! OLIPOP is not keeping the fun to themselves— you can join the celebrations too from May 12 to May 19 online at the Virtual Drive-Thru. PLUS — everyone can enjoy an exclusive twenty percent OFF discount on all products with code DRIVETHRU20. OLIPOP is known for being the pioneer of soda alternatives, with their drinks tasting great without any of the negative ingredients. Every can is formulated with high fiber and low sugar, making it the perfect pick-me-up during long days of studying. Bye-bye are the days of being wired from coffee or sluggish in the afternoons, with OLIPOP you can enjoy the endless flavor and support your body at the same time. What makes OLIPOP so enticing is just how flavorful they taste! We know that for many, soda is a must-have, but we promise once you try this alternative, you will never go back. Each can only contains 2-5 grams of sugar and have high fiber making them work for you not against you. Explore their iconic flavors, including popular soda dupes, Vintage Cola, Classic Grape, and Classic Root Beer, to satisfy your sweet tooth guilt-free. OLIPOP drinkers can not get enough, with one saying: 'This tastes so delicious... tastes like a Coke, but better!' Plus, OLIPOP fans will be excited to know that the highly sought after Orange Cream flavor is officially here to stay! You will be able to sip the nostalgic 'creamsicle' inspired beverage at the pop-up and at home from here on out. Whip up creative mocktails this season with the 6+ flavors that OLIPOP has to offer. Whether you are looking for a non-alcohol option or just looking for a healthier alternative to your favorite sips— OLIPOP is where it's at. Make sure to cash in on their limited-time twenty percent OFF deal with code DRIVETHRU20, and if you are in the L.A. area, stop by the OLIPOP Mocktail Drive-Thru on Monday May 12 for even more fun!
Forbes
13-04-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The Rise Of Functional Beverages Among Millennials And Gen Z
As alcohol intake has decreased, especially in younger demographics, functional beverages—beverages with additional health benefits—have become more popular. The global functional beverages market size was valued at $175.5 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach $339.6 billion by 2030. Here, industry insiders share insights on what consumers are drawn to and some of the biggest trends in functional beverages. Alcohol alternatives Alcohol consumption in the U.S. has been on a decline for several years, with young adults and millennials leading the shift. In a survey of 1000 Gen Z individuals, 21% reported they don't consume alcohol and 39% drink only occasionally. Health and mental health concerns and lack of interest in alcohol are some of the primary reasons reported for abstaining. Consumption of alcoholic beverages among adults aged 18-25 decreased from 59.6% in 2013 to 49.6% in 2023. Millennials are among top purchasers of non-alcoholic alternatives, such as alcohol-free spirits, dealcoholized wine and non-alcoholic beer. For example, in April 2024, 61% of non-alcoholic beer consumers in the U.S. were Millennials, up from 45% in 2023. In the United States, the volume of non-alcoholic beverages consumed grew by 20% in 2023 and is projected to continue growing at a compound annual growth rate of 17% through 2028. 21.5% of Gen Z does not consume alcohol, and 39% drink only occasionally. Health concerns are a key factor, with 34% citing mental health and 46% simply not being interested. Attest Sarah Kate, a go-to expert in the non-alcoholic space and founder of Some Good Clean Fun, has been tracking industry trends since 2021 and is especially excited about the growing number of women swapping wine for functional drinks. 'You can have so much fun with drinks that don't have alcohol in them. IYou get so much back when you stop drinking. And your social experience is actually better because you're actually more present.' She's found that women in their 40s who don't have time for 'aesthetic mocktails' who are used to drinking wine, 'are searching for the holy grail of NA red wine.' Gen Z, on the other hand, she shares, tends to gravitate towards beverages with strong branding. Gut healthy ingredients Health-conscious consumers have also become increasingly focused on gut health in recent years, and an array of beverages featuring gut-healthy ingredients like probiotics and fiber (especially prebiotic fibers) have hit the market. Fiber is a star nutrient There has been significant year-over-year growth in prebiotic and probiotic beverage purchases, reflecting a growing consumer focus on digestive health. In March of 2025, PepsiCo even acquired functional soda, Poppi in a $1.95 billion deal. Lauren Manaker MS, RDN, LD, Charleston-based registered dietitian and OLIPOP partner says there's a wide range of consumers purchasing the functional soda but that some of the main things they're focused on are reducing sugar, improving digestion, and enjoying a healthier alternative to nostalgic soda. Manaker says, 'OLIPOP stands out for its unique OLISMART formula, a science-backed blend of functional ingredients, including prebiotics, designed to support digestive health. Each can delivers 6-9 grams of fiber while keeping sugar content low at just 2-5 grams.' She explains, 'Fiber is an essential component of a healthy diet, yet many people fail to meet the recommended daily intake,' which is 25 to 35 grams per day. 'This fiber gap highlights the disparity between the amount of fiber people consume and the amount they actually need to support optimal digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and maintain overall well-being.' Functional drinks with fiber can help bridge this gap by providing a delicious alternative to traditional sugary sodas, she says, while also supporting gut health. 'Prebiotic fiber, specifically,' adds Manaker, 'is essential for gut health because it serves as food for the beneficial bacteria in your digestive system. These 'good' bacteria, also known as probiotics, may play a key role in maintaining a healthy balance in your gut, which affects digestion, immunity, and even mood. Prebiotic fiber helps these bacteria thrive and grow, supporting a healthy microbiome. By including foods and beverages rich in prebiotic fiber, like slightly underripe bananas, garlic, onions, whole grains, and OLIPOP, you can promote better digestive health.' Just one thing to note about fiber is that more is not always better. Dialing it up too much too soon could cause GI discomfort, bloating and gas, and those with underlying gastrointestinal issues who need to be on a low-fiber diet should talk to their doctor about use of high-fiber sodas. Athletic performance and recovery Beverages geared towards enhancing hydration, athletic performance and post-workout recovery have become popular in recent years. For example, the United States Electrolyte Drinks Market, estimated at $11.31 billion in 2023, is expected to grow to $21.26 billion by 2034. Nutrients shown in studies to be associated with things like endurance, energy, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, reduced muscle soreness and similar effects are also being promoted in functional beverages. POM Wonderful, a longtime favorite of consumers and healthcare professionals for its high antioxidant content, has also stepped into this workout recovery space, partnering with athletes highlighting how the carbohydrates, polyphenols and potassium in pomegranate juice can support their performance and promote recovery. Catherine Sebastian, MS, RD, Senior Manager for Nutrition Communications of POM Wonderful or Registered Dietitian fo POM Wonderful Jennifer Hirano, Vice President of Marketing at POM Wonderful, says, 'Our main POM audience is a group we like to call Wellness Seekers. They tend to be more women ages 25 and up. What's common with them is that they're interested in wellness, live an active lifestyle, and are looking for healthy alternatives.' Some of the brands other primary customers are those they all flexible spenders. 'They are on the lookout for quality things. They like to eat organic, put value behind fresh produce and seek out healthier options.' Those using pomegranate juice to support an athletic lifestyle are a growing part of their customer base. Adaptogens Beverages featuring adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, functional mushrooms like reishi, lion's mane and chaga as well as compounds shown to promote feelings of calm like GABA and L-theanine have been on the rise. Another reason these beverages appeal to consumers is that they offer feelings of relaxation associated with alcohol but without the hangovers, disrupted sleep, and anxiety that also come with alcohol. Kate says, 'A big thing I'm seeing right now, especially among women, is that we're seeing people say they like NA wine, but they want to 'feel' something.' While they may be natural, however, always check for interactions between adaptogens and any supplements or medications you may be taking. More than a trend Functional beverages appear to be more than just a passing trend—they reflect a larger cultural shift in how consumers think about what they drink and why. Whether it's swapping wine or beer for a non-alcoholic alternative, reaching for a prebiotic soda to support gut health or hydrating with electrolytes or replenishing carbs after a workout, people are looking for more from their beverages than just refreshment. As interest in intentional, health-focused choices continues to grow, functional beverages are expected to remain a major player in the wellness landscape.
Yahoo
24-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
9 Expert Lifestyle Hacks to Lower Blood Sugar
Balancing your blood sugar is not easy. It can involve constantly reading nutrition labels, monitoring how many carbs are in the foods you're eating, and other detail-oriented tasks. But there are some larger, less granular lifestyle hacks you can focus on that can make a difference in having lower blood sugar. We spoke to dietitians and diabetes educators to find out what lifestyle shifts they recommend. One of the simplest hacks is to stay hydrated. In fact, folks who get admitted to the hospital with high blood sugar immediately get an IV with fluids to help dilute it. Drinking enough water can help you maintain better blood sugars during times of stress and after meals, when it may be higher than usual. Getting enough high-quality sleep is associated with better blood sugars. Similarly, getting poor quality sleep or not enough has been shown to increase cortisol levels and increase blood sugar the following day. Focusing on your sleep hygiene is another hack for better balance. 'It may surprise you that one of the things that impacts blood sugar the most has nothing to do with what you eat,' notes dietitian and diabetes educator Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDCES. 'Poor sleep has been shown to elevate stress levels and worsen insulin resistance, making it harder to manage blood sugar. On top of that, just one poor night of sleep can alter hunger and satiety hormones, increasing appetite and cravings for simple sugars.' If you're a soda lover, but want a healthier beverage alternative, there are several options on the market. OLIPOP, a prebiotic soda, has 9 grams of fiber per can and only 2 to 5 grams of sugar, depending on the flavor (vs. 39 grams and no fiber in a can of regular cola). If you're looking for a hydrating beverage without any sugar or fiber, consider a bubbly water such as Spindrift. Related: 7 Expert-Approved Ways to Avoid a Blood Sugar Spike Typically, protein and fiber get all the love when it comes to blood sugar management, but healthy fat is just as important — and it's time to set aside the old fears we learned years ago about dietary fat and weight. Of all of the macronutrients, fat takes the longest to digest, meaning it will keep you more full and help stabilize your blood sugar by slowing down digestion and absorption. Choose heart healthy fats like salmon, avocados, and pistachios. Dates, prunes, and other dried fruit can provide natural sweetness with fiber and a lower glycemic index. This means that foods with natural sugars will not raise your levels as much as those with refined sugars. Plus, these foods have a range of health benefits like boosting bone and gut health. 'Use pureed prunes as a replacement for added sugar in baked goods,' says Palinski-Wade, who is a consultant for Sunsweet Growers. 'This simple swap preserves the sweetness and texture of the recipe while cutting added sugar, reducing overall carbohydrates, and increasing fiber.' Even just a few minutes of exercise after eating can significantly reduce blood sugar levels. When we move our muscles, our body absorbs blood sugar and puts it to use, effectively lowering the amount in the bloodstream. Exercise also increases insulin sensitivity and can help keep your blood sugar more regulated for hours or days later, depending on the activity that you do. 'My approach to balancing blood sugar focuses on adding things in, not taking things away,' says dietitian Christine Byrne. 'One fantastic hack that doesn't involve modifying your food intake is to get in about 10 minutes of physical activity after a meal. Going for a walk is a great option, but it's not the only one. Household chores like cleaning the kitchen, vacuuming, or folding clothes are also a way to get your body moving post-meal and keep your blood sugar levels more balanced.' Choosing balancing foods is the number one hack for better blood sugars after meals and snacks. Protein, fat, and fiber are the main nutrients that help stabilize blood sugar and prevent major spikes. 'To help balance blood sugars, I always start with a foundation of eating every few hours, including a combination of fiber-rich foods plus a protein,' says Taylor Aasand, MPH, RDN, CEDS. 'Some examples include an apple with peanut butter, hummus and whole grain crackers, or a protein bar made with whole grains.' Related: 5 'Healthy' Breakfast Foods That Are Spiking Your Blood Sugar Taking a fiber supplement with each meal can help slow down meal absorption and prevent a spike. 'Add 3 grams of psyllium husk with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Take it with your meal and plenty of water, and always consult with your medical team before adding a new supplement to your regimen,' says Aasand. It's not only what you eat, but also the order in which you eat various foods can help. If you eat your protein-rich and fiber-filled foods first, the carbohydrates on your plate will be absorbed more slowly, leading to a smaller peak in blood sugar levels. 'One simple hack for better blood sugar balance is eating your vegetables first,' says Haley Bishoff, RD, LD. 'Vegetables are high in fiber, which can aid in slowing the digestion of carbohydrates, leading to a slower insulin response and less blood sugar spikes. Be sure to include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, and legumes for better blood sugar balance.' Read next: 5 Ways to Control Blood Sugar That Don't Involve Food The post 9 Expert Lifestyle Hacks to Lower Blood Sugar appeared first on Clean Plates.
