The beverage industry is transforming, fueled by shifting consumer preferences, rising health awareness, and innovative product development. Among the standout trends of 2025 is the dramatic rise of prebiotic sodas—sparkling drinks that combine fun flavors with ingredients designed to support gut health. With PepsiCo expanding into prebiotic beverages, convenience store managers have a unique opportunity to capitalize on this wellness-forward shift by adjusting inventory and marketing strategies to meet evolving consumer demand.
The Short Story About Pepsi Expanding into Prebiotic Beverages:
Of recent announcements in the C-store industry, one that will impact stores nationwide is about PepsiCo expanding into prebiotic beverages, optimizing a consumer trend towards health-conscious beverage options. Here’s the quick run-down:
In March 2025, PepsiCo acquired Poppi, a leading brand in the functional soda space, for nearly $2 billion. Poppi’s success lies in its balance of flavor, gut-boosting benefits (from apple cider vinegar), and vibrant branding that has resonated with a younger demographic.
The deal officially closed in May. As part of the acquisition, Pepsi gained critical consumer research and expertise to expand the use of prebiotic ingredients in traditional brand flavors.
In July, PepsiCo unveiled Pepsi Prebiotic Cola–the first major Pepsi cola innovation in about 20 years. The prebiotic formulation will be available in Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla flavors. A 12-oz can will contain:
- 3 grams prebiotic fiber (that’s one more gram than Poppi)
- 5 grams cane sugar
- 30 calories
- No artificial sweeteners
The product will be released online in fall 2025 and in convenience stores and retailers nationwide in early 2026, reinforcing PepsiCo’s belief that prebiotic beverages have staying power, not just trend status.
This rollout is especially significant because it puts gut-friendly sodas in the same aisle as traditional soft drinks, signaling a shift in consumer expectations and giving convenience store shoppers a compelling new choice.
The Growth of Non-Alcoholic Packaged Beverages
Packaged beverages are a significant contributor to non-fuel revenues for C-stores. A 2021 report by NACS indicated that packaged beverages were the top in-store gross margin-generating sales category:
From the report: “Top margin center-store contributors for 2021 include:
1. Packaged beverages—23.3%
2. Cigarettes—10.4%
3. Other tobacco products—6.5%
4. Beer—5.7%
5. Salty snacks—5.2%
6. Candy—5.2%
7. General merchandise—2.7% 8. Alternative snacks—2.1%
9. Packaged sweet snacks—1.5%”
What Are Prebiotic Sodas?
Prebiotic sodas are carbonated beverages that include prebiotic fibers—primarily in the form of inulin or other fermentable fibers that feed the good bacteria in your gut. Unlike probiotics, which add live bacteria to the gut microbiome, prebiotics help the beneficial bacteria already present flourish.
These drinks are often:
- Low in sugar
- Made with natural ingredients
- Infused with fruit juices or apple cider vinegar
- Marketed as a better-for-you alternative to traditional soda
In addition to being fizzy and refreshing, they appeal to modern health-conscious consumers looking for functional benefits in everyday purchases.
Why Are Consumers Reaching for Prebiotic Sodas?
Consumer interest in digestive health is surging. According to recent studies, nearly 80% of U.S. adults report gut health as a wellness priority, especially Millennials and Gen Z consumers who are skeptical of traditional sodas but still crave flavorful, on-the-go drinks. This has led to the rapid rise of prebiotic soda sales in natural grocers, supermarkets, and—most notably—convenience stores.
Other reasons for growing popularity include:
- Digestive support: The link between gut health and overall well-being is gaining mainstream attention.
- Cleaner labels: Many prebiotic sodas boast simple, pronounceable ingredients.
- Low-calorie and low-sugar options: Prebiotic sodas often contain 25–35 calories per can and significantly less sugar than mainstream sodas.
- Variety of flavors: From Strawberry Lemon and Raspberry Rose to Cherry Cola, the flavor profiles compete directly with traditional sodas.
Educating Your Team
Your employees are critical for selling products, including these prebiotic beverages. Ensure team members understand the basic benefits of prebiotic drinks. A quick primer on “prebiotics vs. probiotics” equips them to answer customer questions or make recommendations, adding value to the shopping experience. Here are some quick talking points you can use:
Prebiotics versus Probiotics
- Prebiotics = Food for your gut’s good bacteria
- Probiotics = Live good bacteria that help your gut
How Do They Work?
- Prebiotics go to your intestines and feed the good bacteria already there.
- Probiotics add new helpful bacteria to your digestive system.
Where Are They Found?
- Prebiotics are fiber-based ingredients found in:
- Certain sodas (like Poppi and Olipop)
- Bananas, oats, onions, garlic, apples
- Probiotics are found in fermented foods:
- Yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha
Easy Analogy: Think of your gut like a garden:
- Probiotics = planting new flowers
- Prebiotics = fertilizer to help them grow
The Future of Functional Beverages in Convenience Retail
The rise of prebiotic sodas is part of a larger movement toward functional beverages—drinks that do more than hydrate. This includes categories like electrolyte waters, adaptogenic teas, and collagen-infused beverages. But prebiotic sodas are uniquely positioned to dominate this space thanks to their blend of flavor, health benefits, and soda-like experience.
As the line between nutrition and indulgence continues to blur, forward-thinking convenience store operators can stay ahead by aligning with national trends. That means adding premium wellness products, like prebiotic sodas, before your competition does.
The convenience store industry thrives when it adapts to meet new consumer expectations. The announcement of PepsiCo expanding into prebiotic beverages isn’t just news—it’s a signpost that the market has matured. Consumers want fizzy, tasty drinks that are better for their bodies, and now they’re finding them not just in health food stores, but in everyday stops like gas stations and neighborhood markets.
If you’re a convenience store owner or manager, now is the time to plan shelf space, talk to distributors, and integrate prebiotic sodas into your inventory. By embracing the functional beverage wave, your store can become a go-to destination for customers who want wellness without compromise.
