Sparkling Water Market Summary

The global sparkling water market size was valued at USD 29.71 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 76.95 billion by 2028, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.6% from 2021 to 2028. The market is witnessing substantial growth as a result of an increasing global trend toward adopting a healthy lifestyle across all age groups. Consumers are progressively replacing traditional sugary carbonated beverages with healthier, more innovative options such as sparkling water, which offers the satisfaction of carbonation without added sugars or calories.

The rising inclination of health-conscious consumers toward sparkling water in place of conventional sodas and sweetened carbonated drinks is expected to be a major driver of the market throughout the forecast period. Although the commercial demand for sparkling water initially declined during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic due to the closure of public places, offices, and restaurants, demand swiftly rebounded in household settings. The implementation of stay-at-home orders led to increased consumption of bottled water, including sparkling variants, among households worldwide. According to the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA), bottled water manufacturers responded to this surge in household demand by significantly ramping up production, further strengthening the market's growth.

Key Market Trends & Insights

  • In terms of product type, natural or mineral sparkling water dominated the market and held the largest revenue share of over 60.0% in 2020. This growth is attributed to the rising consumer demand for clean-label, natural, and health-promoting beverages. Consumers are increasingly seeking out sparkling water with natural mineral content, which is perceived to offer additional health benefits. Furthermore, flavored sparkling water variants are gaining considerable popularity due to their appealing taste, refreshing fizzy nature, and added health value without artificial ingredients or sugar.
  • Among the distribution channels, the "others" segment, which includes convenience stores, small retailers, and local vendors, led the market and accounted for 36.4% of the global share in 2020. Hypermarkets and supermarkets, along with convenience stores, together represented a major portion of sales owing to their vast product variety and wide shelf presence. These retail formats offer both premium international brands and more affordable private label options, making them highly accessible and attractive to consumers from various economic backgrounds.
  • The online distribution channel is projected to register the fastest growth, with a CAGR of 13.3% from 2021 to 2028. Changing consumer behavior, particularly the increasing preference for digital shopping and doorstep delivery, is significantly influencing sales through e-commerce platforms. The convenience of browsing through a wide range of products, reading customer reviews, and availing of doorstep delivery has made online channels an essential and rapidly growing component of the sparkling water market.
  • Geographically, North America dominated the global sparkling water market and accounted for a market share of over 35.0% in 2020. The regional market is being driven by a rising awareness of the negative health impacts of sugary beverages and a strong preference for healthier alternatives like sparkling water. Consumers are drawn to sparkling water not only as a calorie-free refreshment but also for its benefits, including increased water intake, improved digestion, and potential support for bone and cardiovascular health.
  • Europe also accounted for a notable market share in 2020. In several European countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France, and the Netherlands, sparkling water is widely consumed and often served alongside meals in restaurants. The region’s long-standing cultural affinity for carbonated water, combined with the growth of fast-casual and quick-service restaurant chains, continues to fuel demand. Moreover, increased health awareness and the availability of a variety of sparkling water products further contribute to the market’s steady growth across Europe.

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Market Size & Forecast

  • 2020 Market Size: USD 29.71 Billion
  • 2028 Projected Market Size: USD 76.95 Billion
  • CAGR (2021-2028): 12.6%
  • North America: Largest market in 2020

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Mergers & acquisitions and product launches are among the key strategies taken up by the market players. For instance, in January 2020, Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. acquired Limitless, a U.S.-based caffeinated sparkling water company. This acquisition has widened Keurig Dr Pepper’s water portfolio and through this acquisition, the company entered the caffeinated sparkling water market.

Key Players

  • Nestlé
  • PepsiCo, Inc.
  • National Beverage Corp.
  • Talking Rain
  • Keurig Dr Pepper Inc.
  • The Coca-Cola Company
  • Danone S.A.
  • SANPELLEGRINO S.P.A
  • Clear Cut Phocus
  • Caribou Coffee Operating Company, Inc.
  • Hiball
  • RHODIUS Mineralquellen und Getränke GmbH & Co. KG
  • AQUA Carpatica
  • Northwest Coffee
  • Volay Brands, LLC
  • WakeWater Beverage Co.
  • Big Watt Cold Beverage Co.

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Conclusion

The global sparkling water market is experiencing significant growth due to consumers’ rising health awareness and shifting preferences away from sugary soft drinks. The market is supported by increased household consumption, evolving retail dynamics, and the growing popularity of natural and flavored variants. North America leads in market share, while Europe continues to witness steady demand due to established consumption habits. Online sales channels are rapidly gaining traction, complementing traditional retail. As consumers continue to prioritize wellness, hydration, and clean-label options, the sparkling water market is expected to remain on a strong upward trajectory in the coming years.