In 2018, co-founders Ben Goodwin and David Lester launched OLIPOP with a bold vision to disrupt the $40 billion soda industry. Their goal was ambitious yet simple: to create a soda that offered research-backed health benefits without compromising on the nostalgic flavors lifelong consumers craved. But beyond great taste, they also set their sights higher, aiming to make a meaningful positive impact on consumer health on a massive scale. After nearly a decade of collaboration with top scientists and experts worldwide, OLIPOP pioneered a new category of functional beverages, a trend that has redefined the beverage industry today.
As OLIPOP gained traction and continued to lead innovation, Lester and Goodwin faced their next challenge: scaling to compete with traditional soda industry giants. This hurdle would require substantial resources to ramp up inventory production to meet skyrocketing velocities and expand into new sales channels, all crucial steps in building national brand awareness. To fuel their growth strategy, OLIPOP’s equity providers recommended a trusted working capital partner who understood their unique market position and could support their vision for years to come.
When OLIPOP first partnered with Dwight Funding in 2020 on the recommendation of their equity provider, they were at a critical juncture. Dwight’s human-centric approach and flexible loan structures proved invaluable as OLIPOP navigated its path to profitability. Their ability to upsize the initial facility size as OLIPOP’s inventory needs evolved allowed the beverage brand to seize new retail opportunities, increase brand exposure, and steadily improve their household penetration rate.
Average YoY revenue growth with Dwight
best-selling single serve soda at leading grocers
Looking ahead, OLIPOP is on pace to redefine not just what we drink, but how we think. Their constant innovation, exemplified by recent launches like shelf-stable products, is pushing the entire category forward, challenging competitors to evolve and rethink tried-and-true formulas for the true benefit of their customers.
OLIPOP’s vision extends far beyond the can, embracing a mission to educate and empower consumers on the importance of fiber and nutrient diversity, while also making a widespread impact on consumer health. By bridging the gap between indulgence and wellness, they’re reshaping consumer expectations of what soda can and should be. As OLIPOP continues to push boundaries, they’re not just disrupting the industry; they’re actively rewriting its future, setting new standards and promising a positive influence on consumers in the beverage world.
Working with Dwight checks a box for investors and potential equity partners.”
Dwight truly understands the demands of our business and our vision for the future.”
We wanted to partner with someone who really understands our type of business.”
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