East Europe cooler market sees Point of Use up 21%
The East European water cooler market advanced by 5.2% in 2012 to 1.7 million units at the end of the year, according to the latest report from the sector’s leading specialist consultancy Zenith International. The point of use segment, which scarcely existed in the region a few years ago, is now climbing rapidly and reached 50,000 units, a jump of 21%.
Bottled water coolers continue to dominate with 66% of the market, but their share has dropped in recent years. Nevertheless, the segment experienced its strongest growth since 2008, rising by 3.5% to 1.1 million units. Dispensers and pumps remain a significant part of the cooler industry in East Europe, representing over 30% of the market. Their share was boosted by a very strong performance in Russia and the Ukraine.
Russia and Poland are by far the biggest markets in the region, with a combined 65% share. Romania and Poland represent over 70% of the point of use segment. Croatia, Estonia and Latvia achieved the greatest point of use growth in 2012, while Serbia increased its bottled cooler base the most.
Although point of use is still a niche market in East Europe, its spread is expected to expand substantially over the next five years. “Provided companies focus on promoting long-term cost savings, environmental credentials and convenience, point of use has real potential for strong growth in the region,” commented Zenith Consultant Iva Hatzold.
Zenith forecasts continued overall growth, taking the total to 2.2 million units in 2017. “In general, East European countries have been recovering from the financial crisis in the past year, greatly assisting the cooler industry’s improving performance,” added Iva Hatzold. The market is predicted to advance by an annual average 5.5% a year.
The 2013 Zenith Report on East Europe Water Coolers contains 593 pages of market commentary, charts and tables together with country and company profiles. For the first time, a full analysis of the point of use segment is included for each of the 15 countries. Contact Zenith International on tel +44 (0)1225 327900 or e-mail info@zenithinternational.com.
Notes for Editors
- Two charts are attached for publication:
East Europe Water Coolers by Country 2012
East Europe Water Coolers 2012-17
- Point of use coolers are plumbed in to mains water supplies.
- For further information, please contact:
Iva Hatzold, Consultant, Zenith International Ltd
7 Kingsmead Square, Bath BA1 2AB, United Kingdom
t +44 (0)1225 327900, f +44 (0)1225 327901
zenithinternational.com