Drink Asia September - October 2019 | Page 21

feature in supermarkets and hypermarkets, and are fast- replacing the ones developed using conventional farming practices. However, the high price point of organic fruit-infused water is likely to benefit conventionally produced flavored water. calorie consumption trend penetrating deeper in the beverages sector, in addition to detox drinks meant for weight loss and cleansing, are likely to upkeep the sales of fruit-infused water in the future. While still young, the fruit-infused water market possesses enormous potential, the key trends to which have been recorded and analyzed in an exclusive study published by Persistence Market Research (PMR). The study is intended at enabling stakeholders to make well- informed decisions and scramble towards a higher market share. ~2 billion liters of fruit- infused water was sold, which corresponds to a value of US$ 10 billion. In recent times, functional properties of fruit-infused water have positioned it as a favorable choice among the lactose-intolerant and GMO-allergic population, which widens the consumer base for the product. With the increasing cross-border trade activities, exotic as well as seasonal fruits are available round the year, which upholds the streamlined supply of raw materials required for the production of fruit- infused water. However, the simplicity of infusion process has been instigating consumers to prepare fruit- infused water at home, which is likely to pose a challenge to the sales. In addition, concerns apropos of the carbon footprints are likely to lead vendors to rethink the packaging of fruit-infused water. Revenue Shares of Still Flavored Water to Sparkle Once found only on the shelves of health food stores, organic food and beverages are now a routine Charting the Evolution of the Fruit-infused Water Market The image of healthy and flavorful water has been breaking grounds in the consumers’ space; however, the popularity gained by the packaged drinking water in 1977, in the U.S., inspired producers to capitalize on the evolving preferences of consumers and introduce fruit-infused water. In 2018, Drink Asia 21 September-October 2019 With the tangy flavor and abundant health benefits, sales of citrus fruits are likely to remain high for the preparation of low-calorie fruit-infused water; however, strawberry-flavored water has been increasingly becoming popular, which will lead to the introduction of new products. In terms of products, still water is anticipated to contribute significantly to the growing market size, as consumers evince a liking for non- carbonated beverages; however, sparkling flavored water has been frequently chosen over still flavored water in HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafes) segment, as these distribution channels intend to distinguish their offerings.