The small company that changed the way we eat popsicles in Atlanta has hit a rough patch thanks to COVID-19.
King of Pops, a popsicle startup that began during the Recession after founder Steven Carse was laid off from AIG, is joining a growing list of local businesses struggling under the economic weight of the coronavirus. The business has reached nearly $10 million in yearly revenue, but this week, the company reports it has laid off 50% of its workers due to the pandemic.
Just short of celebrating their 10th birthday, Carse told What Now Atlanta on Monday that he was forced with the difficult decision of letting go more than half the company.
"Coming off our best year ever, we were excited to kick start this season and pursue our core value of creating 'Unexpected Moments of Happiness' one pop at a time," the company website reads. "Instead, we had to let go over half the company on Tuesday."
The business generally relies on catering, warmth and sports events, but due to the nationwide cancellation of in-person events, King of Pops has now resorted to offering free delivery to those stuck at home.
"We’re coming out of our low cash flow winter season, and this hit at the worst possible time," the website says.
In an attempt to keep the popsicle stands open and delivering their products to the masses, the company will begin working on a blog and podcast to discuss how the company will work to survive this financial crisis.
Carse has created an option for customers to partner with King of Pops. These customers can purchase pops and other seasonal items at wholesale prices to sell in their neighborhood. The popsicle business is also offering free delivery from their online store and a virtual bodega called Rainbow Provisions that highlights local makers.
King of Pops has also set up a GoFundMe account to raise $25,000 to donate 10,000 pops to hospital and emergency-response workers. The company is currently at more than $5,000 of its goal and plans to finish the campaign on April 1, the anniversary of the company's opening.
Carse has also created the Slinger Relief Fund, a donation fund for King of Pops' "work slingers" and employees. All donations will be sent to impacted staff members.
