Highland Spring is growing five times faster than the water category1 – and water outpaces soft drinks2. For Scotland’s local retailers, that creates an opportunity to turn demand into sales with the UK’s No.1 Water brand3.
That performance is underpinned by an established Still, Sparkling and Flavoured Water portfolio for every occasion. Still provides natural, healthy hydration on the go, at home or at work; Sparkling delivers a refreshing bubbly boost; and Flavoured Water combines spring water with natural fruit flavours for extra fruitiness. The range serves immediate-consumption and take-home missions while broadening choice.
Three trends are shaping demand: healthy hydration, naturally better-for-you drinks and interest in locally sourced products with clear provenance. Together, these support year-round water sales, with consistent demand beyond seasonal peaks and uplifts during key seasonal moments. Drawn from Scotland’s Ochil Hills, Highland Spring responds to these priorities with a local story.
To meet year-round demand, retailers should prioritise bestsellers: 750ml Still Sports Cap, 1.5L Still and 500ml Sparkling, alongside Strawberry, Apple & Blackcurrant, and Orange & Passion Fruit Flavoured Water in 750ml and 1.25L formats.
HFSS restrictions already apply in England and reach Scotland this October. Highland Spring Flavoured Water is HFSS-compliant, so retailers can merchandise it in store locations affected by the legislation while offering shoppers a fruity choice.
Rob Long (pictured), Category Controller at Highland Spring, said: “Water is a growing opportunity and Highland Spring is helping retailers unlock it. Its recognition and breadth make it well placed to serve varied shopper occasions.
“Retailers should focus on a balanced mix of Still, Sparkling and Flavoured Water, supported by strong availability and execution. Giving shoppers the right formats, in the right place, can broaden choice, build confidence at the fixture and drive stronger store sales.”
Use Highland Spring’s recognition and provenance to draw shoppers into a fixture blocked by water type and brand. Offer on-the-go packs chilled, supported by secondary locations and free-standing displays. As water is often bought alongside soft drinks and coffee – an ‘and’ drink rather than an ‘or’ drink – these steps can encourage incremental purchases and drive stronger store sales.
- NIQ Total Impulse, Sales Value Growth vs YA), 52wks data to w/e 11/07/2026
- Dataset: NIQ Homescan Panel Data | GB Total Outlets, data to 11/07/26
- NIQ Total Coverage, Sales Volume (Ltrs) and Sales Value (£s), 52wks data to w/e 11/07/2026
