Marketing

Bottling purity

Bottled water continues to dominate Ireland’s soft drinks landscape, with per‑capita consumption rising steadily from 30 litres in 2005 and maintaining its upward trajectory into 2026, according to Britvic Ireland. Drinks Industry Ireland reports on this ever-growing and sustainably-focused category

Ireland’s bottled water industry blends pristine natural resources with modern manufacturing, supplying both domestic and export markets. Sourced from protected springs and aquifers, Irish bottled waters benefit from a cool climate, low population density and rigorous environmental oversight.
Producers range from established national brands to agile regional operators, offering still, sparkling and flavoured waters in glass, PET and increasingly lightweight, recycled packaging.

Bottles of goodness

Sian Young, sustainable business and corporate affairs director of Britvic Ireland, Mark Hargadon, commercial director of Britvic Ireland and Paul Dermody, CEO of Horse Racing Ireland Racecourses

Britvic Ireland, part of the Carlsberg Group, has a proud company heritage in Ireland that spans to the late 1800s with the invention of soda water by Augustus Thwaites in Dublin. Since that time Britvic has stayed at the forefront of soft drinks innovation and as Irelands first bottled water, Ballygowan Natural Mineral Water continues that trend.
Bottled Water remains in high demand in the hospitality channel with customers seeking out trusted brands which enhance social and dining occasions. At the forefront of this trend is Ballygowan, Ireland’s number one bottled water brand. With a portfolio spanning still, sparkling,
and flavoured water in a wide range of formats, this offers consumers and businesses a complete hydration solution.

The all-in-one Flavour Tap

Paul Gillmon, head of championships, DP World Tour, and Kevin Donnelly, managing director, Britvic Ireland, practice their putting at The K Club, Straffan, Co. Kildare

As part of Britvic Ireland’s comprehensive hydration portfolio, Aqua Libra represents the next generation of water dispensing innovation. Its integrated, contemporary design with advanced technology taps systems bring effortless, reliable solutions for busy hospitality staff seeking high quality chilled, sparkling and boiling water at the touch of a button. The ‘all‑in‑one’ Flavour Tap takes this to the next level with still, sparkling, and flavoured water on demand to energise and uplift teams, offering a sophisticated hydration solution for any environment. Britvic Ireland is the hydration partner of choice for an increasing range of businesses. Recent partnership announcements include the Aviva Stadium, Horse Racing Ireland Racecourses and Vue Cinemas.
As a leading provider of bottled water, water cooler dispensers and filtered water systems, the company combines convenience with a strong
commitment to sustainability. As a verified member of Origin Green,
Britvic Ireland prioritises responsible sourcing and reduced environmental impact while offering a comprehensive portfolio of hydration options, all supported by nationwide water delivery.

The sparkling Italian icon on the world’s finest tables

With roots in Italy and a presence in over 120 countries, S.Pellegrino represents the best of the Italian way of living

For over 125 years, S.Pellegrino has proudly brought the essence of Italian style to tables around the world. Born in the heart of the Italian Alps and historically appreciated for its thermal qualities, this sparkling natural mineral water, with its signature gentle bubbles and perfect mineral balance, is today chosen for its unique taste that transforms every occasion into something extraordinary. With roots in Italy and a presence in over 120 countries, S.Pellegrino represents the best of the Italian way of living: natural elegance, conviviality, and good taste. It’s more than just water; it’s a lifestyle, a symbol of refinement that elevates dining experiences everywhere.

It has become the jewel of sparkling waters, celebrated by chefs and sommeliers for its ideal pairing properties, making it the fine
dining water of choice in the most prestigious restaurants. Over the years, S.Pellegrino has delighted gastronomy lovers with partnerships and limited editions inspired by icons of fashion, art, and culture, including Vogue, Bulgari, Missoni, and Pavarotti. Today, S.Pellegrino is proud to announce a new lifestyle chapter: a long-term partnership with Ferrari, a legacy that brings together two champions of heritage, craftsmanship, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Speaking of excellence, in 2015, S.Pellegrino launched a global project dedicated to young chef talents: the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, which every 18 months discovers and celebrates the future protagonists of high-end gastronomy.

Just plain hydrating

With over 30 years’ experience in the market, consumer preference is at the heart of Deep RiverRock’s mission.
In 2025 Deep RiverRock launched a new brand campaign – ‘That’s Better’ – taking a refreshingly honest approach, cutting through the noise of exaggerated wellness claims. Its message is simple: Deep RiverRock won’t make you better at anything – except hydrating.
Shane McQuaid, brands marketing manager at Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: “Ireland is clearly embracing a new era of
hydration. We know that consumers respond to authenticity and in a market full of overpromises, we are a brand that offers straightforward,
refreshing, and hydrating products.
The – That’s Better – campaign, which launched last year, is testament to the growing trend and success of the hydration market. The campaign had impactful reach across Ireland and Northern Ireland, with consumers responding well and reaching for Deep RiverRock more and more. As hydration habits continue to evolve, Deep RiverRock will continue to lead with innovation, transparency and a commitment to keeping the nation honestly hydrated”.


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