IFE has long been a launchpad for quality food and drink startups, connecting ambitious founders with buyers from across retail and hospitality. For PopCornaa, that platform proved transformative.

Launching PopCornaa at IFE 2025 was an unforgettable milestone for the brand. Founder Emily Tse and her team used the show’s Producer Showcase and New Products Tasting Theatre to introduce their bold, Asian-inspired gourmet popcorn to the UK market, debuting a standout flavour: Vegan Coconut Green Matcha. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with strong interest from buyers and plenty of buzz among visitors. That momentum continued as PopCornaa went on to win the World Food Innovation Award for Best Snack at the event — a moment that set the tone for everything that followed.

“It’s been a whirlwind six months since PopCornaa took home the World Food Innovation Award for Best Snack at IFE 2025 — and what a journey it’s been, getting retail ready!” says Tse. “That recognition gave us the confidence (and the push!) to take everything we’d built and completely reimagine it.”

PopCornaa began as a flavour-forward fusion of East-meets-West inspiration, offering both dairy and vegan options. But after months of listening and learning, the team made a bold decision to fully embrace inclusivity. The brand relaunched as 100% clean, dairy-free, nut-free, and cruelty-free — a popcorn range that is suitable for vegans, vegetarians, kosher, and halal diets.

“Our relaunch marks a huge milestone,” Tse continues. “Every batch is crafted with the same playfulness and bold spirit, but with a deeper purpose: proving that flavour, fun, and inclusivity can coexist beautifully.”

PopCornaa’s business growth has been equally impressive, with export activity accelerating across the EU and Middle East, and new white-label and co-manufacturing partnerships emerging with brands that share its values. Looking ahead to 2026, PopCornaa is preparing to launch its fiery new flavour, Sriracha Soul, already tipped as one to watch.

“This next chapter feels more authentic than ever,” says Tse. “PopCornaa isn’t just popcorn — it’s a movement for kind, creative, and conscious snacking. And we can’t wait to showcase the new range next March.”