Hoplark Introduces ‘The Cheeky One’: A Bold Beverage with a Bigger Mission for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Innovative beverage brand Hoplark is proud to announce the release of The Cheeky One, a limited-edition ginger tea made with Lemon Drop Hops created in collaboration with a colorectal cancer advocate and passionate fan of the brand. More than just a refreshing hydration option, The Cheeky One is designed to spark important conversations, raise awareness, and support organizations working to increase screenings, fund research, and provide resources for those affected by colorectal cancer. A portion of proceeds from every sale will be donated to a couple key CRC organizations.

The impetus for this limited release? In an activation where Hoplark engaged its community last year on what brings them joy, brand fan Kim responded with a story that made the Hoplark team laugh, cry, and, most importantly, take action. Diagnosed with colorectal cancer after a routine screening with no symptoms, Kim’s journey became a call to normalize conversations about colorectal cancer and emphasize the importance of early detection. Her experience is a stark reminder that awareness and action can save lives, and Hoplark knew they wanted to be part of helping Kim share her mission.

Bold and refreshing, The Cheeky One combines the warming spice of ginger tea with the citrusy brightness of Lemon Drop Hops, a flavor combination that mirrors Kim’s energy—fiery, vibrant, and full of life. Ginger, a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, was an easy choice. “I’m a little spicy myself,” Kim jokes, “and ginger has been shown to have cancer-fighting properties. Plus, it just tastes great!”

Kim worked closely with Hoplark’s team on every detail, from the name to the can design. The striking blue color wasn’t just an aesthetic choice—it’s the official color of colorectal cancer awareness. “Pink changed the game for breast cancer,” Kim explains. “It increased screenings, research, and survival rates. We need the same momentum for colorectal cancer. The more we talk about it, the more lives we save.”

For both Hoplark and Kim, this collaboration isn’t just about a drink—it’s about changing the conversation. She has been advocating for improved insurance coverage for screenings in Minnesota, where she is from, and working with both local and national organizations to advance screening tests nationwide. She’s also deeply involved in supporting grassroots research efforts and patient communities, ensuring that people diagnosed with CRC have the resources and support they need.

A portion of proceeds from The Cheeky One will be donated to organizations making a tangible difference in the fight against colorectal cancer:

• Minnesota Colorectal Cancer Research Foundation (MCCRF) – A volunteer-run nonprofit funding innovative research at the University of Minnesota and Mayo Clinic, working to expand treatment and screening accessibility.

• Colontown & Paltown – PALTOWN, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, operates COLONTOWN, a colorectal cancer support network that embraces patients and caregivers, empowers them with accessible education and peer support, and employs them to lead and sustain the organization.

“At Hoplark, we believe in crafting beverages that not only taste incredible and deliver an awesome flavor experience, but also foster meaningful connections," says Shannon Wright, Senior Marketing Manager for Hoplark. "The Cheeky One is a perfect example of how we can use our passion for flavor to support important causes, and we’re honored to partner with Kim to bring this vision to life.”

Hoplark invites everyone to sip, support, and spread the word. The Cheeky One is available for a limited time starting March 1.