The market for bottled water equipment has been steadily growing on the heels of diminished consumer confidence in the quality of municipal water systems. As consumers become more concerned about their health, bottled water is becoming a clear substitute for soft drinks. Entrepreneurs see the growing opportunity in the water bottling system and are moving to make a name for themselves in this industry.
In the water bottling business, the Food and Drug Administration sets the standards for the bottled water supplies. These standards are less demanding than the regulations regarding tap water; however, business owners must meet the FDA standard of identity for bottled water supplies. These standards identify water as a certain type and are designed to prevent products from being misbranded. The most common types of bottled water sold are:
1. Spring water - comes from an underground source and flows naturally to the surface to be collected with drinking water equipment
2. Mineral water - originates underground and contains dissolved solids
3. Purified water - has been produced by a reverse osmosis water bottling system or distillation
4. Sparkling water - water supplies have been carbonated
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Branch out with vending machine water equipment
One water bottling business option is water vending machines. This option represents a lower start-up cost in a turnkey solution. Consumers use their own containers and pay to fill them at your kiosk - thereby eliminating the cost of water supplies.
I recommend: The Iceberg, Inc., offers the Water Bottle kiosk. This clever design services up to a 5-gallon container.
The Water Clinic vending machines provide high performance in a low-maintenance, cost-effective package. They also have the ability to custom design your logo on the machine face.
Compare bottled water equipment
If you plan to bottle your own product, you need to shop around for bottled water equipment. Some specific equipment is needed to ensure a clean and efficient operation. Bottle cleaners make sure your containers are clean before filling. An overflow or gravity filler to fill your bottles and should be selected based on your production goals and floor space. A capping machine will seal your bottles, and the labeler adds that final touch.
I recommend: American AquaSource, Inc., can supply a complete production line with new or used water bottling equipment. They also provide pallet and shrink wrap equipment for distribution.
Liquid Packaging Solutions, Inc., another water equipment company, can provide complete turnkey setup for small operations, including custom machinery to fit your special needs.
Consult the water bottling system experts
For business owners that want to bottle their own product and don't want to go it alone, there are water equipment and supplies consultants. These firms can design and build a system for you, install the equipment, provide maintenance and trouble-shooting services and provide customer support.
I recommend: Norland International Inc., specializes in water bottling systems for small- to medium-sized businesses. Their services range from design and planning to after-sale customer service.
Steelhead, Inc., has maintained a top spot in the industry for 30 years. Their innovation - including a one-operator bottling system - and stellar customer support make them a great choice for a new operator.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- The International Bottled Water Association is a great educational and marketing resource to keep you competitive and up-to-date on issues critical for the bottled water equipment industry.
The official source of Water Equipment and Supplies is
the Water Equipment and Supplies page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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