Why Have Bottle Water Prices Increased So Much?

The increase in the prices of bottled water has emerged as a notable economic development in recent times. The average price of 19-liter bottled water ranges between 135-195 TL, continuing to shake consumers' budgets. This situation raises questions about why the selling prices are so high, despite the actual cost of water being around 3 TL.

Industry research clearly reveals the gap between the cost of the water in the bottles and their selling prices. For example, a bottle of water sold for 150 TL has a water cost estimated to be only 1.5-3 TL. The remaining amount consists of packaging, marketing, distribution, and service costs, taking a significant share.

However, in the past year, the costs of transportation, storage, and personnel have not increased significantly. Therefore, it becomes difficult to explain the high increases in water prices and the reasons behind this situation. The criticism and questioning of price increases by various segments highlight how vital this issue is.

These increases affect not only consumers but also various sectors. Given the importance of water for health and food safety, the rising prices of packaged water raise public concern. In this context, there is a serious need for transparency. Consumers demand more information about the process of water from its source to their tables.

As a result, while the increases in bottled water prices cannot be assessed independently of costs, the uncertainties regarding the dynamics in the sector and changes in these dynamics negatively affect consumer perception and trust. It remains to be seen how this situation will shape in the coming periods.