From Glass to Greatness: Poppi's 5 Lessons in Brand Power

Poppi started as a simple glass bottle. Today, it’s a multibillion-dollar brand—and its journey is proof of just how powerful thoughtful branding can be. From small business owners, there's a lot to learn from how Poppi turned a better-for-you soda into a cultural phenomenon.

But before diving into their story, it’s important to understand what it really means to build a brand. Branding is about far more than a logo or product. It's the entire perception and experience people have with your business. It’s a combination of strategy, visuals, messaging, and actions that shapes how your audience sees, feels, and interacts with you. Strong branding connects emotionally, builds recognition, and ultimately drives growth.

With that foundation, here are 5 lessons small business owners can take from Poppi's journey:

💡 Lesson 1: Brand is More Than Your Product

The drink alone wasn’t enough. Poppi's rebrand gave them a distinct personality—playful, approachable, and instantly recognizable. People aren't just buying a soda, they are connecting with an energy and story that made the brand memorable.

🪩 Your brand is how people feel about you before they even try your product and investing in a strong brand identity can make your business unforgettable.

🎯 Lesson 2: Laser-Focused on Your Audience

Poppi zeroed in on millennials and Gen Z craving healthier soda options. By knowing exactly who they serve, Poppi created messaging, visuals, and experiences that resonated deeply.

🪩 Knowing exactly who you serve makes is essential because provides the blueprint to make your brand strategic, memorable, and easier to grow.

🤝 Lesson 3: Build Community Through Brand

Fans didn’t just buy soda—they joined a movement. Every touchpoint, from playful packaging to engaging social media campaigns, invited people to feel part of something bigger.

🪩 Strong branding fosters loyalty and emotional connection, transforming customers into advocates.

🚀 Lesson 4: Show Up Strategically

Branding isn't just a logo or color palette—it's a consistent presence wherever your audience pays attention. Poppi strategically appeared across social media, influencer partnerships, and even a Super Bowl ad. From social media to a Super Bowl ad, Poppi met audiences where they were paying attention.

🪩 Being deliberate about when, where, and how you show up ensures your brand is not just seen, but remembered.

❤️ Lesson 5: Keep Your Mission at the Core

Every product, flavor, and campaign reflects Poppi’s mission of fun, healthy, approachable beverages. Purpose driven brands inspire loyalty, build trust, and create long-term growth.

🪩 When your brand has a clear mission, it resonates internally with your team and externally with your audience.

At Thirty Three Six Studio, we help businesses start on the right foot with branding that drives both short-term wins and long-term growth. We make the process simple, strategic, and accessible, so you can focus on what you do best.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation Today