Though details of the bulk water venture are still being finalized, Pepsi is expected to introduce bulk water under the Aquafina brand.
Aquafina was launched almost two-and-half years ago, and is available in conventional retail pack sizes such as 500 ml and 1-litre bottles.
The company spokesperson said, "Bottled water has a growing market, and we are looking at various options and exploring possibilities. However, we have not finalized any plans as yet."
The packaged water segment is estimated at Rs 1,000 crore and is evenly split between the retail and bulk segment, according to industry estimates.
Pepsi's Aquafina bulk water, expected to hit the market after a couple of months, will be up against stiff competition from Parle Bisleri and Coca-Cola India's Kinley. The 20-litre bulk water market has been witnessing aggressive action from both players.
Ramesh Chauhan is on record that the bulk water segment will spearhead Bisleri's growth over the next few years, and that it will account for 80 percent of the branded water business within five years (double of what it is now). About a month ago, Bisleri had announced the relaunch of its 20-litre home pack with a more 'consumer-friendly format' in thread fitting and valve cap, against the conventional snap-on fittings. Existing 20-litre Bisleri packs are now being withdrawn and the rollout of the new jars, priced between Rs 40-60, is already on.
Aquafina's market share in the retail segment is estimated at about 12 percent.
Source: Financial Times
