A rebounding economy as well as convenience and a healthy image have helped bottled water sales recover from years of decline in 2008 and 2009, according to Chicago-based Mintel’s U.S. “Bottled Water” report released in March. “Following sales declines of 2.8 percent in 2008 and 5.4 percent in 2009, the bottled water market has rebounded to positive growth each year since 2010,” the report stated. “This rebound suggests not only at least a minor return in purchasing power but also the appeal of bottled water as a convenient part of a healthier lifestyle.”
Mintel estimated that 2012 sales of bottled water increased 6.8 percent for approximately $13.2 billion. Although the market research firm forecasts continued annual growth, it will be at lower levels than the 6.8 percent estimated for 2012, it says. With these slightly lower increases, Mintel forecasts bottled water sales to reach $15.5 billion by 2017.