USA | Simply has juiced the prebiotic soda category with a fruit-forward line of beverages to support gut health and immune function.
Simply Pop has no added sugar and 25 to 30 percent real fruit juice from concentrate. Five boldly delicious flavours familiar to Simply fans include Strawberry, Pineapple Mango, Fruit Punch, Lime and Citrus Punch, which will be offered exclusively in 12-oz., shelf-stable slim cans.
Becca Kerr, CEO of Nutrition, The Coca‑Cola Company, said the team took a disciplined, consumer-driven approach throughout the product’s journey, from ideation to launch.
"We found that consumers, especially wellness-focused Gen Z-ers and Millennials, were really interested in juice and prebiotic sodas. And since many brands in this category are new, they were looking to align with names they know and trust for both quality and taste,” said Kerr.
“This was particularly true for those curious about prebiotic sodas but who hadn't yet taken the leap. We knew that in order to bring new drinkers into the category, we had to strike that perfect balance of innovation and trust."
With more than two decades of expertise and equity in juice, Simply’s credentials made it the ideal choice to lead the company’s entry into prebiotic sodas.
Since launching as an orange juice brand in 2001, the Simply portfolio has expanded to more than 20 varieties of juices, juice drinks, ades, smoothies and more.
Terika Fasakin, North America Brand Senior Director, Simply and Kids, shared insights into the brand's connection with its audience.
"Gen Z grew up with this brand. They don't remember a world where Simply doesn’t exist, and it’s the juice they’ve seen in the fridge throughout their lives, so it has a particular tug on their heartstrings,” said Fasakin.
“This has truly been a labour of love for the team because we know Simply Pop is the great-tasting prebiotic soda consumers want. We’ve pushed ourselves to move fast while staying strategic and focused. And, as we get feedback from consumers who taste Simply Pop and engage with the brand, we’ll continue to evolve.”
The team refined the Simply Pop taste profile, packaging, and playful visual identity over a year through extensive taste tests and consumer feedback sessions. Out-of-home, digital and influencer-driven social media creative, robust sampling and experiential activations will promote the phased launch.
Later in the year, the brand will team up with Dear Media for a podcast tour where well-known hosts discuss the juiciest pop culture topics over Simply Pop.
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