Harrogate Spring Water secures new export order to Vietnam

Harrogate Water Brands has secured a ‘significant’ export contract to supply bottled spring water to Vietnam.

This new exporting deal follows on from sales to Russia and The Middle East after the company’s decision to invest £8m in stepping up production of its still and sparkling spring water in 2014.

Harrogate Water Brands’ international success initially came when it entered the airline market after an approach by Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong. Deals were later struck with other airlines, including Emirates and Thomson Airways.

The company receives support and advice from overseas trade specialist, Chamber International, and the Department for International Trade.

Harrogate Water Brands, which started production in 2002, has now grown to 84 staff and a £20m turnover of which 10% is generated by overseas sales.

Greg Hatton, the firm’s export and new business development manager, said: “Accessing the Vietnamese market is another significant step in making Harrogate Spring Water a major global brand on the ground as well as in the air.

“There has been a fantastic reception from overseas since we started exporting due to a combination of Harrogate Water’s heritage and classic presentation, through to confidence in our quality, high standards of production and environmental focus.

“Chamber International does a great job in assisting us with advice and support to ensure the smooth operation of our exports as we continue to build sales overseas and it makes a significant contribution to our success.”

Tim Bailey, Chamber International director, added: “Harrogate Water is one of Britain’s best loved brands with a fascinating heritage and we are pleased to be supporting it in a new era of global success.”

Harrogate Water Brands, which draws and bottles perfectly-balanced mineral water at its site in Harlow Moor Road, was launched in 2002 after Harrogate Council decided to re-start production and put a contract out to tender.