Karlovarské Minerální Vody Group buys Kékkúti Ásványvíz Zrt.

The Czech Republic based Karlovarské Minerální Vody Group (KMV) buys Kékkúti Ásványvíz Zrt. (Kékkúti). KMV is the largest bottler of mineral water in CEE and has deep expertise in the mineral water business and also wider beverage portfolio offering. KMV plans to employ in full the existing organisation of Kékkúti Ásványvíz Zrt. (110 people) and its Hungarian market entry will bring additional investments as well as ensuring the continued development of the Nestlé Waters brand portfolio.

“We have an ambitious plan for the growth of Kékkúti and it is based on the principles that have made us successful: innovation and a product portfolio for the healthy lifestyle of adults and children. We are consumer-oriented and passionate about local traditions and local products. Our mission is to infuse innovation and competitive drive to Kékkúti inspiring brands that are the part of Hungary’s tradition and that Hungarians love,” Alessandro Pasquale, CEO of KMV, specifies.

KMV started its European program of expansion in 2008. The group, employing 750 people, is now directly present in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Germany, Poland and Ukraine and exporting to more than 20 countries.

According to the European Federation of Bottled Waters, the Hungarian market for packaged water is among the most developed in Europe, consumption per capita was particularly high, 119 litres in 2013. The Hungarian market of packaged water shows positive trend with 3,5% CAGR growth in the period of 2008-2013.

Kékkúti Ásványvíz Zrt. is one of the largest mineral water bottlers in Hungary. The company bottles the Theodora and Nestlé Aquarel brands and distributes the international brand portfolio of Nestlé Waters (San Pellegrino, Acqua Panna, Perrier. As a separate legal entity, Kékkúti Ásványvíz Zrt. has been owned by Nestlé Waters, part of Nestlé Group.

Another Hungarian subsidiary of Nestlé Group is Nestlé Hungária Kft. that is not affected by the above changes. Nestlé Hungária Kft. employs over 2000 people in Hungary and made investments in value of more than 60 billion HUF in the Hungarian market during the past 23 years and it is committed to make further significant investments in the future. Nestlé Hungária Kft. has three production facilities in Hungary and 80% of its products are exported to more than 40 countries all over the world.

About KMV
KMV bottles the Mattoni, Magnesia and Aquila brands which are exported to 20 countries around the world. The company’s product portfolio includes natural and flavoured mineral waters, spring waters, iced teas, and distributes fruit juices Granini and carbonated soft drinks Schweppes under a licence agreement.