Pure water coming from a purely New Zealand owned and operated business, O Pure embodies the spirit of natural artisan water. While the brand is new to the market, with the support of parent company Aquifer HB Ltd, it is quickly making strides and increasing its footprint. Marketing manager Kara Sweney explained to the team the business, its successes and what to look for in the future.
What is your company background, how did you start the business?
"Aquifer HB Ltd was set up in 2015 by Campbell Johnstone and Doug and Holly Speedy. Both Doug and Holly come from a soft commodity background with experience working all over the world. Campbell is an ex-All Black with large business experience in property and on premise. Friends for the last 18 years, they all spent time travelling and working around the world and in 2014 they decided it was time to return home to beautiful New Zealand and set up a business together. Their travels inspired the name of the water – Ō comes from the Maori meaning for provisions for a journey."
What are the current product range and variants and how do these products stand out in the market?
"Ō PURE is the leading supplier to the NZ market of 10L Bag in Box. The water also comes in 330ml, 500ml and ultra-premium glass 250ml and 750ml, both sparkling and still.
Ō PURE is different from other waters on the market. The water comes from a protected aquifer in the Heretaunga plains in Hawkes Bay. For millennia the water has been making its way through the natural filtering process untouched by man. It is a unique water source and product, clean and naturally pure and has a soft and fresh taste."
What are the plans for the business moving forward, is there any expansion on the horizon?
"There is growing demand for Ō Pure on the global market as well with the product being exported to China, USA, UK and continental Europe."
Where are your products currently available to buy, and are you looking at or wanting to expand your availability? If so, where would you like to see the product situated?
"The products are available in New Zealand through Countdown, New World, Pak N Save, Four Square and via Gilmours and Bidvest for trade. The sparkling variant is available also at Liquor King and select Super Liquor stores."
