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 With UK sales topping £1.2 billion and the sector showing unprecedented year-on-year volume growth of almost 20 per cent to top 2.09 billion litres, the UK bottled water market has never been stronger.
Consumers are increasing their water intake on the advice of health professionals to drink at least eight glasses a day. Bottled water is also proving an increasingly popular alternative to soft drinks because it contains no additives and is calorie free, satisfying demand for products which fit with a healthier lifestyle.
A key growth area for bottled water is schools, many of which now carry vending machines as a functional and cost-effective means of selling products to pupils without the hassle of staffing tuck-shops or opening canteens during breaks.
In-school vending is also a way for head teachers to influence what pupils eat and drink during school hours. A growing number of head teachers are insisting that high sugar and high fat products are removed from vending machines and replaced with healthier alternatives such as bottled water. With medical research demonstrating that children are calmer and can concentrate better if they are hydrated, schools are allowing pupils to drink water in class, or have regular water breaks, which is boosting sales from in-school vending machines.
“Schools represent an important retail channel for bottled water companies, with vending an excellent mechanic for gaining distribution in this area,” commented Paul Martin , managing director of Harrogate Spa Water, which is established as one of the top twenty bottled water brands by value.
“Local authorities and head teachers are utilising vending as a way of promoting healthy living whilst providing a steady income stream.”
Paul believes bottle size and shape is all-important in successfully retailing bottled water in schools. He continued: “We recently launched a 330ml bottle of Harrogate Spa Water that is specifically designed for primary school use. The bottle is an ideal size for under 10s to carry, whether to drink on-the-move or take into class.
“For teenagers, our 500ml sportscap is the best seller. Image counts for everything in this age group, with students attracted to Harrogate Spa because of its striking livery and our fashionable sports cap design.”
Paul added: “Vending customers are selecting Harrogate Spa Water because they are assured of its reputation as a producer of quality spring water. They are also attracted by our stylish, contemporary packaging which not only looks good but performs extremely well, offering impressive on-tray stability and impact.
“We're winning new business in this area having established Harrogate Spa in the grocery, licensed trade and foodservice sectors, securing listings across the country and proving we can compete alongside the larger brands in the competitive bottled water sector.”
Vending operators listing Harrogate Spa Water include Bunzl Vending. The brand is also available from leading wholesalers throughout the UK .
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