The News
AfroPop Soda has announced a distribution partnership with Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC), expanding its reach to 42 states. The Oklahoma-based brand, which launched in December 2023, is now positioned for national growth through this deal. Founder Jamel Stephens emphasized that the partnership allows AfroPop to focus on massive distribution and scale up operations.
The Takeaway
- National Distribution Push: AfroPop Soda’s deal with RNDC gives it access to 42 states, which is huge for a brand that just launched in December 2023. This isn’t just about selling more soda—it's about getting into places like grocery stores and bars where they weren't before.
- Black-Owned Brand Growth: Jamel Stephens, the founder of AfroPop, says this partnership puts them “in the big leagues,” which is a major win for Black-owned businesses in the spirits industry. It shows that there’s real support for culturally driven brands trying to grow beyond local markets.
- Volume Game Strategy: Stephens mentions that scaling up means increasing volume, and working with RNDC helps AfroPop do just that. This isn’t about chasing trends—it's about building a sustainable business model that can compete on a national scale.
Original Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — AfroPop Soda, the culturally driven Black-owned beverage brand known for its bold flavors and celebration of Black creativity, has announced a new distribution partnership with Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC), positioning Oklahoma’s only Black-owned soda brand for expansion and national growth. The partnership will allow AfroPop to scale its distribution, reach new markets, and expand its impact in local communities.
“Partnering with RNDC allows AfroPop to focus on massive distribution,” said AfroPop founder Jamel Stephens. “It opens doors for us to expand into spaces that are harder to get into and sets us up to potentially become a nationally distributed brand.”
RNDC currently operates in 42 states, creating a major opportunity for AfroPop to expand beyond its existing markets. While the partnership begins with distribution in Oklahoma, the infrastructure could eventually place AfroPop products across much of the country.
Stephens said the collaboration represents a turning point for the young company. “It puts AfroPop in the big leagues,” Stephens said. “It gives us an opportunity to become even more competitive in our space and to scale. This is a volume game, and by working with RNDC we’re able to increase the volume of everything we’re doing.”
AfroPop first launched in December 2023 and has quickly gained traction as a culturally focused beverage brand that blends unique flavors with a strong connection to art, music, and community. What sets the brand apart, Stephens says, is its mission. “We’re culturally forward,” he said. “We celebrate Black joy, community, and culture in everything we do. We partner with emerging artists and create unique flavors that reflect the creativity of our community.”
Since its launch, AfroPop has already reached 24 states and 134 retail locations, demonstrating strong early demand for the brand. “Our goal is to continue strengthening our partnerships with small businesses and scaling Afro Pop into a national brand,” he said.
Consumers can purchase Afro Pop products online and follow the brand’s collaborations with artists and creators through its social media platforms.
Source: BevNET