Qallo

Qallo is a Belgian company, founded in 2020 and headquartered in Kontich, that develops and markets powdered beverage mixes designed as a healthier alternative to traditional energy drinks. The company was founded by Alexander Van Laer, Niels Peetermans, and Moos Tits, the entrepreneurs who previously launched the car-sharing service Poppy. The founders, as young fathers, identified a personal need for a way to stay hydrated and energized without resorting to sugary drinks.

The company's core product is a powder based on natural fruit and plant extracts, enriched with vitamins, minerals, and natural caffeine. Consumers mix the powder with 0.5 to 1.5 liters of water to create a low-calorie, sugar-free, and vegan drink. The formula includes active ingredients like Green Tea, Guarana, and Siberian Ginseng, supplemented with B vitamins and minerals to boost energy and focus. Qallo's business model is primarily direct-to-consumer through its website, with products also available in retail stores like AS Adventure and Game Mania. The company sells its products in various formats, including tubs and single-serving stick packs.

In October 2021, Qallo launched its initial powdered energizer. By April 2023, the company had sold over 300,000 units and secured a new investment round led by Spadel, the producer of SPA and Bru water, through its venture capital fund 'The Source'. This funding, supported by existing investors and angel investors from BAN Flanders, is aimed at fueling the company's expansion across Europe. The company was also named the Belgian e-commerce start-up of the year in 2024.

Keywords: powdered beverage, energy drink alternative, hydration mix, sugar-free, natural ingredients, B-vitamins, direct-to-consumer, beverage innovation, functional drinks, plant extracts, sustainable packaging, nootropic, wellness beverage, ecommerce, Belgian startup, healthy lifestyle, water enhancer