San Pellegrino's trademark bottle underwent a makeover to mark a major company milestone in late 2019.
San Pellegrino’s trademark bottle underwent a makeover to mark a major company milestone in late 2019.

As environmental awareness spreads worldwide, never has the plastic bottle been more on-the-nose. Two brands are doing different things with bottled water – one a legendary marque celebrating its 120th anniversary, and another yet to reach its first.

Even without a label, a bottle of San Pellegrino is instantly recognisable, having been heavily involved in the hospitality industry for the majority of its existence. In 2019, the iconic sparkling beverage celebrates 120 years and in doing so, has done something it never has before – modified its iconic bottle.

To celebrate, the company is currently circulating a special variation on its glass Vichy bottle with diamond-shaped rivets which rise from the surface. The special bottle will be making appearances at some of the most exclusive San Pellegrino events taking place this year.

“Ever since its foundation in 1899, S.Pellegrino has been a premium brand synonymous with style for more than a century,” said Marketing Director, Australia, Steve Rainey.

“The response so far from our premium customers and sales team has been overwhelmingly positive and we hope to see it continue to roll out through Premium HoReCa channels. A bottle like this creates a huge buzz in the trade as it’s the continuation of special edition labels that is released into the trade based on the brand ethos; Authenticity, Togetherness, Passion, Beauty and Flair.”

The celebrations are far from over for San Pellegrino, which is preparing to launch a range of Essenza – a flavoured variation on the classic taste expected to be available from November in Lemon and Lemon Zest, Tangerine and Wild Strawberry, Dark Morello Cherry and Pomegranate.

The Just Water flavoured range.

Back to basics for Just Water

Another brand just starting out on its journey is Just Water, which as the name suggests, is simply a bottle of 100 per cent Australian spring water. Where it differs though is the bottle itself, which is consumed from a paper-based carton and a sugarcane bottle cap.

Founded by Jaden Smith – son of multifaceted performing icon Will Smith – Just Water was created as a response to the enormous plastic patches in oceans around the world. Jaden says his brand aims to make it easier for everyday people to be part of the solution.

Just is a highly social, active brand starting to make its mark on the hotel industry. At the time of writing, five major luxury hotels have opted to stock its rooms and dining venues with Just Water. These include Shangri-La Sydney, Novotel South Wharf Melbourne, The COMO Hotel Melbourne, The Element Hotel Melbourne and The Calile Hotel, Brisbane.

Fully recyclable, the brand comes in five infused flavours – Berry, Lemon, Lime, Tangerine and Cherry.