Galco’s Soda Pop Stop
A Sweet Journey Through America’s Most Unique Beverage Shop
This is a very good video interview with John Nese who is the proprietor of Galco’s Soda Pop Stop in LA. His father ran it as a grocery store, and when the time came for John to take charge, he decided to convert it into the ultimate soda-lovers destination. About 500 pops line the shelves, sourced lovingly by John from around the world. John has made it his mission to keep small soda-makers afloat and help them find their consumers. Galco’s also acts as a distributor for restaurants and bars along the West Coast, spreading the gospel of soda made with cane sugar (no high-fructose corn syrup if John can avoid it). The part where he talks about CRV is interesting as well.
About Galco’s Soda Pop Stop
Galco’s is more than just a store – it’s a living museum of carbonated beverages. Located in the Highland Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, this family business transformed from a traditional Italian grocery store into a specialty soda emporium showcasing hundreds of unique beverages from around the globe.
What makes Galco’s special is not just its vast selection but the philosophy behind it: celebrating small, independent producers who create quality products with passion and traditional ingredients.
Meet John Nese
John Nese is the charismatic proprietor of Galco’s and a passionate advocate for independent soda makers. His enthusiasm for carbonated beverages is contagious, and his encyclopedic knowledge of soda history and production has made him something of a celebrity in the beverage world.
With his friendly demeanor, John personally selects every product that enters his store, ensuring that each bottle meets his standards for quality ingredients and authentic production methods.
Highlights from the Interview
Business Transformation
How John transformed his father’s grocery store into a specialized soda emporium with over 500 varieties.
Supporting Small Producers
John’s mission to keep independent soda makers in business by connecting them with appreciative consumers.
The CRV Discussion
John’s insights on California Redemption Value and how it affects small businesses and beverage distribution.
Soda Pop Facts
Cane Sugar vs. HFCS
Many soda enthusiasts prefer cane sugar to high-fructose corn syrup for its cleaner taste profile and traditional production methods.
Regional Varieties
The United States once had thousands of local soda brands, many with distinctive regional flavors reflecting local tastes and ingredients.
Glass Bottles
Glass bottles preserve flavor better than plastic or aluminum and are often preferred by craft soda makers for quality and environmental reasons.
Business Lessons from Galco’s
Find Your Niche
Specialization can transform an ordinary business into a destination experience.
Passion Sells
Authentic enthusiasm for your products creates a customer experience that can’t be replicated.
Support Small Producers
Building relationships with independent makers can create a unique product selection.
Quality Over Quantity
Focusing on product excellence rather than price competition creates loyal customers.
Visit Galco’s Soda Pop Stop
Address: 5702 York Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Phone: (323) 255-7115
Galco’s ships their unique sodas nationwide through their website!