Former Olipop CFO Phil Trowler has invested in UK soft drinks challenger Hip Pop.
Trowler – who was a founding member of the rapidly growing US prebiotic soda brand – has taken an undisclosed ownership stake in Hip Pop, and will act as a an advisor to its board.
He had “helped turn Olipop into the world’s biggest healthy soda brand” with revenues set to surpass $500m (£384m) this year, Hip Pop co-founder Kenny Graham said.
“Phil’s experience, wisdom and skills are already crucial to Hip Pop on our explosive growth journey,” Graham said. “And it turns out he is a lovely human being, so instantly fits in.”
Trowler added: “As a proud northern brand, Hip Pop stands out with its authentic, quality drinks and a strong, experienced team. I’m thrilled to be part of this remarkable growth journey, supporting a brand from the area where I grew up.”
How Hip Pop’s founders are bringing northern spirit to soft drinks
News of the investment comes as Hip Pop, founded by Graham and Emma Thackray in 2019, continues to grow its presence in UK retail.
In August, the brand rolled into 98 Co-op stores, having also launched in Marks & Spencer, Waitrose and Ocado this year.
The Greater Manchester-based brand made its grocery debut in Sainsbury’s in spring 2023.
It is forecasting sales of its drinks – which include prebiotic sodas and CBD kombuchas – to exceed £3.5m in 2024.
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