‘2022 to see further growth in rebounded water drinks market’

The UK water drinks market rebounded in 2021 as the country emerged from the worst of the pandemic and out-of-home consumption returned, states a recent report, claiming that flavoured, juicy and functional water are enjoying stronger growth and 2022 is expected to see further surge.

According to the latest UK Water Drinks Market report from Zenith Global, UK consumption of plain water grew by 9 percent in 2021 to reach 3.5 billion litres. Volumes of flavoured, juicy and functional water drinks enjoyed even stronger growth, rising by 11 percent to 440 million litres.

Retail sales value advanced more modestly by 3 percent to £2.5bn, following a 25 percent drop in 2020.

34 percent of the population are consumers of plain water and 18 percent consumed flavoured water in 2021, states the report. Own-label accounted for 44 percent of plain water volumes, down 4 percent on 2020, as retailers and producers prioritised branded products amid supply chain challenges.

“This is really positive progress for the water drinks sector,” said Zenith Global Chairman Richard Hall. “To see the market return close to pre-pandemic levels is a very promising step.

“Consumers have recognised the health benefits of staying hydrated during the pandemic. Adding in the re-opening of the hospitality trade and a gradual recovery for on-the-go consumption occasions, there is every reason for future optimism.”

2022 is expected to see further volume growth of 3 percent, boosted by events attracting renewed local and international tourism including the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, report states.

“The strongest growth in percentage terms is anticipated in the functional waters segment, where volumes are forecast to more than double by 2026, driven by greater consumer interest in their health and wellbeing,” Hall concluded.