There are two main types of bottled water on sale, mineral and spring water. Spring water is taken directly from the source or spring, whereas mineral water comes from deep within the ground. The Drinking Water Inspectorate notes that two thirds of tap water comes from surface water in the form of reservoirs and lakes, with the remainder coming from ground water which can then be treated.

The British Water Cooler Association (BWCA) asserts that employers choose water coolers not only to fulfill their legal obligations, but also because they recognise that hydrated workers will be more productive. Research shows that performance and concentration levels are significantly impaired when we are dehydrated.

The British water cooling market is booming and has grown to approximately 720,000 water coolers, becoming the largest in Europe since 1989, according to a BWCA report. This shows no sign of slowing, and water coolers are now beginning to feature in homes as parents are keen for children to replace sugary drinks with water.

The carbon footprint left by the transportation of water supplies, and the plastic cups and bottles that can be damaging to the environment has, however, led to criticism of bottled water and water coolers as replacements for using the tap. But with various recycling and collection schemes now in operation across the UK, the Industry is demonstrating a much more proactive approach to sustainability.

In the workplace, at the gym or in our downtime, the one thing our bodies will always require is hydration, so water from coolers and machines will always be in demand.

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