Poppi, the viral soda brand, hosted a pop-up event at the University of Maryland on Thursday, as part of their “Juicy Tour.”
Known as a prebiotic soda brand, Poppi offers a low-sugar and low-calorie alternative to other sodas. They also do not use artificial ingredients.
This pop-up promoted the brand to UMD students on campus. It took place next to North Campus Market, behind La Plata and Hagerstown residential buildings.
The event featured games with merchandise prizes, photo opportunities and free soda. The brand was giving away some of their most popular flavors, including Shirley Temple, Raspberry Rose, Wild Berry, Strawberry Lemon and Orange.
Event participants had the opportunity to play multiple games, one of which was a scratch-off. In line, each participant was given one or more scratch-off cards, and if they got three in a row of the same symbol, they won a free prize. These prizes included pink Poppi keychains.
Another popular activity was the spin-the-wheel game. Participants pulled a lever, and if the machine landed on three of the same icon, they won a prize. These prizes included Poppi hydrojugs, tote bags, hats and pink soda mini fridges.
“I think the idea of the scratch-off prizes and the wheel is really fun,” said Aleeza Ansari, a freshman psychology major.
Bright pink was the main color of the event, featuring a pink merchandise booth, tables and Poppi jerseys for the staff. The bright pink color matched the staff’s infectious positive energy.
“I’m making sure the energy’s good and the inventory’s replenished,” said Jenae Andrews, team lead for the Poppi activation at UMD.
Even in the heat, the staff was upbeat and working hard, encouraging participants to take soda and stickers. The staff’s energy and enthusiasm did not go unnoticed. It brought people together.
“I think it’s bringing…a fun demographic of people, and I think the workers are doing a really good job of making everyone excited about it…” said Lucy Rimer, a freshman business management major, “I think this is gonna brighten everyone’s day a little bit.”
According to UMD students, Poppi is known for having engaging, aesthetic and cool events.
“I love Poppi…’” said Caroline McDermond, a freshman marketing major, “They always have the coolest events.”
This pop-up was the fourth stop on Poppi’s Juicy Tour. They will be heading to 18 more colleges before the tour ends on November 11.