Merit has acquired Advanced H2O, Inc., a bottled water producer in the Pacific Northwest, to capitalize on growing demand in the sector.

Information on the Target

Advanced H2O, Inc. ("Advanced") specializes in bottling and distributing purified water across the Pacific Northwest region. The company has established itself as a key supplier by offering private label bottled water to several major grocers and retailers, including industry leaders such as Costco, Safeway, Albertson’s, Fred Meyer’s, and Winco. Advanced operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Burlington, Washington, which enables the company to purify, bottle, and distribute approximately 25 million cases of water each year.

Industry Overview in the United States

The bottled water industry in the United States has seen significant growth over the past few years, driven by increasing consumer awareness regarding health and wellness. As consumers increasingly prioritize hydration and opt for bottled water over sugary drinks, demand in less urban areas, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, has surged. This has led to a competitive landscape among Bottled Water companies, all striving to capture market share.

This region is particularly renowned for its abundant natural water sources, which has contributed to the rise of numerous local bottled water brands. Sustainable practices have also begun to play a cr