Innovation Keeps Sparkling Water Aisles Bubbling With Growth

The sparkling water market is far from flat. In fact, the industry generated $297.1 billion in revenue in 2021, according to Grand View Research, and the market is predicted to grow at a compound annual rate of 12.6% through 2028.

This growth is acutely visible within convenience stores. Enhanced water sales grew 4% in the industry and 3.7% per c-store last year, the most out of any packaged beverage segment, according to Convenience Store News. 

And though it’s a crowded market, brands continue to uncover new white spaces. For example, Mtn Wtr is bringing the ultra-carbonated trend popular in Japan to the United States. The company’s Extra Strong sparkling water is reportedly made from naturally alkaline spring water filtered through volcanic rock beneath Mount Fuji, and is said to pack a fizz level that’s nearly double that of standard sparkling water. 

Protein water, including the sparkling variety, is becoming more prevalent in the aisle, as the number of Americans taking GLP-1 medications increases and consumers look for new alternatives to low-calorie energy drinks. 

Other new product innovations, such as water infused with CBD and magnesium, have gained attention at food industry events like Expo West and the Lipari Food Show.