#USA #Nashville #Poppi #DropOut Companies #Stephen Ellsworth

Stephen Ellsworth Joins DropOut Companies

In a significant move within the consumer products industry, DropOut Companies has announced the appointment of Stephen Ellsworth, co-founder of Poppi, as their new Operating Partner. This strategic alliance is expected to bolster DropOut's innovative approach to developing nostalgic food brands that resonate with modern families.

Founded in 2023 by Connor Blakley and Josh Franko, DropOut Companies is on a mission to revolutionize the consumer-packaged goods sector. With Ellsworth's expertise in brand building and product innovation, DropOut aims to redefine classic foods into healthier alternatives that align with contemporary lifestyle trends.

The Impacts of Ellsworth's Expertise

Ellsworth brings with him a wealth of experience from his tenure at Poppi, where he and his wife transformed a homemade apple-cider-vinegar drink into one of the fastest-growing beverage brands in the U.S. After beginning their journey at local farmers' markets, Poppi gained national acclaim following its viral appearance on Shark Tank in 2019. By 2023, the brand surpassed $100 million in annual sales, and in 2025, they secured a monumental distribution deal with PepsiCo valued at around $2 billion.

Ellsworth's approach, which emphasizes gut health and natural ingredients, has redefined the soft drink landscape, positioning Poppi as a strong competitor in a market saturated with high-sugar options. He stated, "DropOut is doing what Big Food should've done decades ago... It's the same playbook that made Poppi explode, and I'm excited to bring that energy to every category we touch."

DropOut's Growth Trajectory

The timing of Ellsworth's entrance into DropOut couldn't be more opportune. The company recently launched its first significant product, JAMS PBJ, which sees significant traction in major retailers like Walmart and Target, just four months post-launch. This product represents DropOut's goal to take beloved childhood foods and improve them with better ingredient selections.

JAMS PBJ stands out for its nutritional content, boasting 10 grams of protein per serving without using unhealthy oils or high-fructose corn syrup, making it a modern answer to classic snack options. Supported by prominent athletes and cultural figures, JAMS aims to reshape snack time into a healthier occasion.

The collaborations and innovative direction under Ellsworth's guidance suggest that DropOut has ambitious plans for expansion. With multiple products set for a national rollout by the end of 2025, Ellsworth's expertise is expected to be a game-changer in introducing modern iterations of classic comfort foods that traditional food brands have largely neglected.

Looking Ahead

As DropOut Companies progresses, it aims to leverage Ellsworth's knack for culturally relevant branding and operational leadership to accelerate its growth. His track record with Poppi and understanding of consumer needs provide DropOut with the edge they need to navigate the competitive landscape of food products.

In a world increasingly leaning towards health-conscious choices, Ellsworth's involvement signifies a shift in how nostalgia and contemporary demands can blend seamlessly in the food market, making potential waves in the fiscal future of childhood snacks and meals.

For more information about DropOut Companies and its products, visit their website at dropoutcompanies.com. To explore the innovative JAMS PBJ, check out getjams.com.