She started making soda in her kitchen; a decade later, PepsiCo bought her brand for $1.95 billion

Allison Ellsworth (Picture source: Ellsworth's Instagram) A homemade drink prepared in a Texas home's kitchen about a decade ago became a beverage business worth nearly $2 billion. Allison Ellsworth, was experimenting with fruit, apple cider vinegar and soda water to address her personal digestive concerns. The recipe for her health went on to become Poppi, a business co-founded with her husband, Stephen. In 2025, PepsiCo acquired the company in a $1.95 billion deal.The business had modest beginnings. Before Poppi became a recognised soda brand, Ellsworth was selling her drink at farmers’ markets, trying to convince customers to taste something unfamiliar. But her appearance on the television programme Shark Tank while nine months pregnant secured an investment that helped the business move forward.The company subsequently built its audience through social media and expanded into major American retail chains. According to Fortune magazine, Poppi recorded annual revenue exceeding $500 million in 2024 and was available at more than 120 retailers. Its acquisition by PepsiCo followed years of expansion. The company has also faced questions over its health-related marketing claims.Speak...