Company rapidly scales production to meet increased demand

BOTHELL, Wash., April 30, 2020 – Essentia, the pioneer of ionized alkaline bottled water in the U.S., closed the first quarter of 2020 ahead of its forecast with $74 million in measured retail sales¹, as compared to $53 million in the first quarter of 2019². The company saw nearly 70 percent growth in the month of March alone, as the impact of the coronavirus pandemic drove immediate, increased demand for staple consumer products including bottled water. Essentia moved rapidly to meet the elevated demand across the U.S. and continues those efforts working closely with its independent DSD network to replenish stock for retailers and consumers.

“Working in this environment has taken a big effort by our whole team. While our top priority is the health and safety of our employees, we have been working hard to meet the heightened demand,” said Neil Kimberley, Chief Strategy Officer of Essentia Water. “I’m proud of how we have come together with our business partners to maintain the flow of product and keep everyone safe.”

In light of the crisis, Essentia sought measures to support relief efforts in partnership with their Distributors by donating Essentia water (nearly 700,000 bottles to date and counting) to front line workers, including hospital staff and first responders. And the company stepped up its ongoing support for Believe+ (Essentia’s CSR initiative) partner, After-School All-Stars, as the organization adjusts to virtual learning programming to keep youth engaged, positive and healthy and providing meal vouchers and Essentia water to families in need. Essentia also provided a corporate donation to The American Red Cross for specific Covid-19 relief.

“While we continue to safeguard the health and well-being of our employees and ensure our business partners are well supported, it’s imperative that we also help our communities wherever we can. We are fortunate that the business continues to perform well and we’re able to further support our communities during these challenging times,” said Ken Uptain, CEO and Founder of Essentia Water. “We are pleased to be providing relief to those in need, particularly those on the front lines of this crisis, working to save lives and keep our communities safe.”

Looking ahead to the second quarter of the year, Essentia will continue to prioritize the health of its employees, along with increasing production levels to ensure its product is readily available for retailers and consumers.