Smartwater, a widely recognized brand of bottled water, began its journey in 1996 and evolved significantly to become the product known today.
The Origins of Smartwater
Glaceau Smartwater, stylized as smartwater, is a prominent brand of bottled water currently owned by Energy Brands, a subsidiary of The Coca-Cola Company. Its history dates back to the mid-1990s, where it was initially introduced under different names before adopting its current identity.
Key Milestones in Smartwater's Evolution
The brand's early years saw it introduced into the market under a different nomenclature before its eventual rebranding.
- Initial Launch (1996): Smartwater was first introduced in the United States in 1996. At this time, it was available under two distinct names:
- Ice Mountain Spring Water
- Glaceau Mineral Water
- Rebranding to Smart Water (1998): Just two years after its initial launch, the brand underwent a significant transformation. In 1998, the product became officially known as Smart Water. This rebranding was a pivotal moment, establishing the name that would become synonymous with vapor-distilled water and electrolytes for taste.
The evolution from its initial names to Smartwater reflects a strategic shift in brand positioning and identity, leading to the globally recognized product it is today.
Brand Ownership
The brand's journey has also seen it become part of a larger corporate family. Glaceau Smartwater is owned by Energy Brands, which itself operates as a subsidiary of the global beverage giant, The Coca-Cola Company. This ownership structure places Smartwater within a vast portfolio of beverages, leveraging the extensive distribution and marketing capabilities of Coca-Cola.
Below is a summary of the key historical points:
| Year | Event / Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1996 | Initial Introduction (Ice Mountain Spring Water, Glaceau Mineral Water) | The brand first launched in the U.S. under these two names, setting the foundation for its future. |
| 1998 | Rebranded as Smart Water | The pivotal year when the product officially adopted the "Smart Water" name, cementing its brand identity. |
| Current | Owned by Energy Brands (a subsidiary of The Coca-Cola Company) | The current corporate ownership, integrating Smartwater into one of the world's largest beverage companies. |
