Market Trends of Bottled Water Industry
Growing Preference for Functional Water in North America
Functional water is vitamin-enriched waters that have gained consumer popularity for convenience, perceived health benefits, and improved flavor over tap water. There are increasing concerns regarding various health problems such as digestive issues, weight gain, heartburn, etc. due to which consumers are preferring a healthier option like functional water and flavored water.
Compared to other RTD beverages, functional waters are comparatively inexpensive and various packaging options, like containers and single-serve bottles, are making it more popular among consumers, thereby driving the growth of the functional water market. The rapid demand for fortified beverages is attributed to the inclusion of essential ingredients, such as protein, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals in various functional beverages. The introduction of new and innovative types of functional water from the beverage manufacturing companies that are engaged in the production of water from the modified blends of protein and minerals is likely to fuel the growth of the market.
North America Dominates the Market
In developed economies, like the United and Canada, functional water is constantly becoming a major commercial and popular beverage category, as it is an appealing option for health-conscious consumers. Hence, this is augmenting the bottled water market. Bottled water has remained the most profitable section of the beverage consumption market according to International Bottled Water Association (IBWA). Hence, this is augmenting the bottled water market. Major manufacturers and marketers in the country have started to position functional water as an alternative to carbonated drinks and fruit juices. Through product description, modern and interactive labeling and backing from respected brands and organizing programs and seminars, the players are claiming that functional water is an enriched product that is not just for hydration but also can function as a functional beverage.
