Bottled water now fastest growing category in soft drinks market

Bottled water is now the leading growth category in soft drinks so far this year, according to analysts Zenith International.

Sales of plain water in the UK in 2013 exceeded 2.1bn litres and was up 17.7 per cent vs the previous 52 weeks to the 19th April (IRI.)

The move to healthier beverages, the possibility of a sugar tax, coupled with a prolonged spell of warmer weather has boosted sales of bottled water.

“Naturally sourced bottled water is the only product on the shelf with no calories, no sugar, no preservatives and no additives making it the healthiest option for consumers,” said Scott Dickson, senior brand manager Highland Spring Group.