Rise Wellness has announced a major expansion of its retail footprint and product portfolio with the launch of Protein Pop Plus. The new carbonated, ready-to-drink (RTD) clear protein beverage is rolling out immediately to all 607 Costco locations across the United States.
The launch signifies a rapid scaling phase for the brand and highlights the accelerating consumer shift within the sports nutrition category: moving away from heavy, dairy-based shakes toward light, "soda-like" functional refreshments that can be consumed throughout the day.
Formulation Innovation: High-Density Clear Protein
Protein Pop Plus builds upon the brand's original Protein Pop line but introduces a significantly denser macronutrient profile engineered for the club channel.
The new SKU delivers 30 grams of protein per 12-ounce can, achieved through a hybrid blend of whey protein isolate and bovine collagen. Despite the high protein payload, the liquid remains clear and lightly carbonated.
Key Product Specifications:
Sweetening System: Zero sugar and no artificial sweeteners, utilising a premium stevia leaf extract blend.
Dietary Profile: Gluten-free and caffeine-free.
Positioning: Designed to drink like a traditional carbonated soda, targeting consumption occasions outside the standard "post-workout" window.
"Protein Pop Plus represents the next evolution of our Protein Pop brand," said Darin Perry, CEO of Rise Wellness. "It's the only clear protein drink in the market with 30 grams of protein, collagen and no artificial sweeteners. It's a great option for consumers looking for protein options throughout the day, not just post-workout morning routines."
From Industry Debut to Mass Market
The Costco launch marks a significant commercial milestone for Rise Wellness, demonstrating exceptional speed-to-market and buyer acceptance.
The brand’s original formulation (featuring 22g of whey protein isolate) made its initial industry debut just last year. Building on that early momentum, the company secured a nationwide launch in all Target stores in September.
Securing a full 607-store national rollout at Costco indicates strong unit economics and consumer velocity, transitioning the brand from a natural channel challenger to a mass-market functional beverage player.
Club Channel Merchandising and Flavours
To meet the specific merchandising requirements of the warehouse club channel, Protein Pop Plus is packaged in a bulk 15-pack format.
The initial Costco assortment features a variety pack of three fruit-forward flavours:
Citrus
Mango Peach
Orange Cream
Rise Wellness confirmed that additional flavour innovations are already in the pipeline and scheduled to expand the range later this fall.
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