Keurig Dr Pepper launches new “next era” drink nationwide
Keurig Dr Pepper is rolling out “SkyPop”—a new, protein‑fortified “next era” soda brand—nationwide, after early trials in Walmart and Albertsons stores revealed there was a strong consumer demand for a protein-based soda drink.
What Is SkyPop?
With “10g of real whey protein, zero sugar, and just 45 calories per can,” Keurig Dr Pepper is positioning SkyPop as a “next-generation soda.”
The SkyPop lineup includes a mix of fun, novelty and classic, nostalgic flavors, including Root Beer, Ice Pop, Strawberry Cotton Candy, Orange, Fruit Punch, Peaches & Cream, and Grape.
According to the SkyPop website, the drinks are “coming soon” to multiple retailers across the U.S., including:
- Walmart
- Target
- Kroger
- Albertsons
- Safeway
- CVS Pharmacy
- Gopuff
The History Behind SkyPop
According to reports across social media, the brand name “SkyPop” was originally “Don’t Quit,” but Keurig Dr Pepper decided to drop its former protein shake drinks line and rebrand to “SkyPop” to focus on launching the first-to-market protein soda.
Mark French, founder and CEO of SkyPop, told Parade that “Modern soda is entering its next era, and protein is at the center of that evolution. We’re proud to have helped create, and now lead, that shift.”
Backed by a $15-million investment round, supported by MSG, Solyco Capital, iHeart Media, and several high-profile athletes, including NBA star Russell Westbrook, and NFL players Saquon Barkley, Damar Hamlin, and Lavonte David, who believe the brand is leading a new category rather than just serving a passing trend.
Westbrook told Parade that he’d previously “invested in fast-growing beverage brands before, and SkyPop has that same DNA. They identified real white space, developed delicious products, built a strong team, and are executing with purpose. Protein soda isn’t a trend; it’s a new category, and SkyPop is leading it.”
SkyPop has already secured over 65,000 retail partnerships nationwide—including Walmart, Target, and Kroger.
Why Keurig Dr Pepper Is Focusing on Protein Soda
The arrival of SkyPop comes as demand for protein-based food and drink options intensifies.
Consumer demand for protein‑based food and drinks rose sharply over the past year, driven by health trends, GLP‑1 medication use, and younger generations prioritizing high‑protein diets.
Surveys show protein intake increased for at least 61 percent of Americans in 2024, searches for protein‑rich foods jumped 42 percent, and more than half of Gen Z and millennials are actively increasing protein intake.
What People Are Saying
Comments on social media range from: “I need to try every single flavor right now” and “Variety pack? Would love to review each flavor” to “I’m glad that they quit on Don’t Quit. This gives them a much better shot at success.” and “Fire new name and branding.” as consumers seemingly embrace the new drink and rebrand.
