Trade Publication *Au Cœur du CHR* — Water Section · Feature Article (7-minute read)
In a feature on the rise of microfiltered water in the foodservice industry, *Au Cœur du CHR* analyzes a market that has been growing rapidly since 2016, driven by environmental concerns and changing consumer expectations. The trade publication highlights Castalie a key player that has helped this market take off since 2011, alongside competitors such as Purezza, Brita, Exquado, and Cryo. This overview sheds light on the service, pricing, and quality challenges specific to the hospitality sector.
Key takeaways
- The market for microfiltered water in the hospitality industry has been growing steadily since 2016, driven by environmental concerns and a decline in demand for bottled mineral water.
- According to the industry publication *Au Cœur du CHR*, Castalie helped this market take off since its arrival in 2011, with a product lineup focused on two reliable machines designed to resist planned obsolescence.
- Microfiltered water removes chlorine, limescale, and pesticide residues from tap water while preserving minerals, unlike osmosis, which removes even trace elements.
- According to a CHD Expert study, 37% of French people already drink tap water served in a carafe at restaurants—primarily because of the cost (53%) and to reduce their environmental impact—and 76% find filtered water appealing.
- Several companies share the microfiltered water market in the hospitality sector: Castalie activated carbon and silver ions, still or sparkling water with adjustable carbonation), Purezza, a brand of the Waterlogic Group, Brita (water dispensers and filters for kitchen equipment), newcomer Exquado, and Cryo, which is positioned at the very high end of the market for Michelin-starred chefs.
- Connectivity is emerging as a key trend: data cards for preventive inspections, usage tracking, and predictive maintenance are now standard features in new water dispensers from Castalie Brita, whose Vivreau line includes a cloud-based monitoring system.
- In response to the rise of takeout, companies are seeking new solutions: Castalie 30 cl glass water bottles, while Purezza is developing an eco-friendly bottle made from a reusable and biodegradable plant-based material.
- The issue of pricing remains open: Brita recommends charging only for sparkling water, while Purezza suggests a price of around 3 to 4 euros per all-you-can-eat meal; all agree that microfiltered water should be charged at a reasonable rate, well below the prices of bottled water.
Source: Au Cœur du CHR, “Water” section — “Microfiltered Water: A Range of Solutions for Restaurant Owners.” Read the original article
