CHRISTMAS is traditionally a time for indulgence. But while alcohol provides major retail revenue over the festive period, it isn’t the only show in town. Scottish water brand Highland Spring says its sparkling water range also sees a spike in sales.
“Health represents a growing consideration for shoppers when choosing between beverages and continues to be a major driver of product choice,” said Carol Saunders, head of customer marketing at Highland Spring Group.
“Retailers should be capitalising on the health trend this Christmas by marketing still and sparkling water alongside the alcohol fixture.
“Strategically positioning your range like this also promotes and encourages responsible drinking over the festive season and helps add that one additional purchase into customers’ baskets,” she added.
“Chilled soft drinks for consumption at home are also a key sales driver for convenience stores, with entertaining in the home continuing to be a popular trend.
“Stocking popular products such as our Highland Spring Sparkling 1.5-litre bottle in ambient space, gives shoppers a larger size which is ideal for sharing with friends, or as a fridge filler at work. Our sparkling range also benefits from the current health trend as consumers search for sugar-free alternatives within soft drinks, but still wish to have something special.
“As the only mixer with no calories, no sugar, no preservatives and no additives, naturally sourced sparkling water is currently benefitting from the healthy living trend. We’ve been focusing on broadening sparkling consumption by creating new serving suggestions showcasing how sparkling water can be used as a mixer in festive cocktails and mocktails. We have created a number of festive mocktails including the Winter Sparkle,” Saunders said.
Winter Sparkle Mocktail
Ingredients
• Juice of 1/4 lemon
• Juice of 1/4 orange
• 1 teaspoon organic honey
• Top with Highland Spring sparkling water
• Garnish with orange peel and lemon peel
Method
Add all ingredients except the Highland Spring sparkling water to a tumbler. Ensure all are well mixed before adding ice. Finally top up with Highland Spring sparkling water and garnish with the orange and lemon peels.
