The Pop Shoppe

A Canadian soft drink brand

The Pop Shoppe outlet in London, Ontario

The Pop Shoppe is a soft drink brand that originated in Canada in the late 1960s. Known for its distinctive glass bottles and wide variety of flavors, The Pop Shoppe became a cultural icon in Canada during the 1970s and 1980s.

History

The Pop Shoppe was founded in 1969 by Gary Shaw and Brian Alger in London, Ontario. The brand was created to offer a unique alternative to the major soft drink companies by selling directly to consumers through exclusive outlets. Customers could purchase a variety of flavors in reusable glass bottles, which were returned for a deposit.

The business model was innovative for its time, focusing on direct-to-consumer sales and a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability through the use of returnable bottles. This approach resonated with consumers, and The Pop Shoppe quickly expanded across Canada.

Flavors

The Pop Shoppe offered a wide range of flavors, including traditional options like cola, root beer, and orange soda, as well as unique flavors such as lime rickey and black cherry. The variety of flavors was one of the brand's key attractions, allowing it to stand out in a competitive market.

Decline and Revival

In the late 1980s, The Pop Shoppe faced increased competition from larger soft drink companies and changing consumer preferences. This led to a decline in sales, and the company eventually ceased operations in 1983.

However, in 2004, The Pop Shoppe was revived by entrepreneur Brian Alger, who acquired the rights to the brand. The relaunch focused on nostalgia and the brand's iconic status, bringing back the classic flavors and glass bottles that had made it popular.

Cultural Impact

The Pop Shoppe holds a special place in Canadian pop culture, often remembered fondly by those who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s. Its distinctive branding and marketing strategies have been studied in business courses as an example of successful niche marketing.

Related pages

• Soft drink
• Carbonated water
• Beverage industry
• Environmental sustainability