More Companies Dive Into Flavored Water Market

Several major beverage companies plan to begin selling flavored water early in 2005, giving consumers a variety that could boost sales in the competitive market for bottled water.

The Atlanta-based Coca-Cola Co. will sell two water flavors – lemon and raspberry – under its Dasani brand, according to spokesman Ray Crockett. Pricing has not been determined.

Also in the first quarter, Purchase, N.Y.-based PepsciCo Inc. will introduce FlavorSplash and Aquafina Sparkling – two new waters that will be enhanced with flavors. FlavorSplash will come in raspberry, citrus blend and wild berry. Aquafina Sparkling will be available in original, lemon lime and berry.

Several years ago, PepsciCo offered another flavored water, Aquafina Essentials, but they discontinued it, spokeswoman Nicole Bradley said.

Swiss-based Nestle SA plans to offer a non-sparkling flavored water, Nestle Pure Life, in orange, lemon, strawberry and raspberry flavors starting in the first quarter, said Jane Lazgin, a spokeswoman for Nestle Waters. The company already offers a flavored water in sparkling varieties under its Perrier and Poland Spring brands.

British-based Cadbury Schweppes PLC had one on the market until about 2002 but doesn't plan a new one in the near future, spokesman Steve Jarmon said. The company currently offers a bottled spring water, Snap2-0, and a filtered water, Deja Blue.

Another company, Synermark Beverage recently began selling Moraga Pure Flavored Spring Water, available in five flavors through local distributors.

Source: The Associated Press