Highland Spring, the UK’s leading bottled water producer, has teamed up with games giant Nintendo and tennis sensation Andy Murray, to launch an exciting new on-pack promotion. 

Launching in May 2008, consumers will have the chance to win Nintendo Wii games consoles, as well as the opportunity to join the UK’s No.1 tennis professional, Andy Murray, for a Nintendo Wii tennis match at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton. 

To enter the free prize draw, consumers can register via text message or on the dedicated competition website at www.gowiild.co.uk.  Each week, one lucky winner will receive a Nintendo Wii games console and 32 finalists will travel to Roehampton to meet Andy Murray, with one lucky winner having the chance to test their skills against him in a Nintendo Wii Tennis challenge. 

Sally Stanley, marketing director at Highland Spring, commented: “Highland Spring is committed to supporting British tennis and reinforcing the health benefits of staying hydrated during sport.  In the run up to Wimbledon, our Go Wiild with Andy Murray sales promotion is a fantastic way of communicating this.”

This exclusive promotion will feature on the majority of Highland Spring’s retail packs from May 2008.  

Highland Spring is the exclusive beverage sponsor to Andy Murray, who hails from Dunblane, Perthshire, just 10 miles from the company’s bottling plant.  Highland Spring also supports Jamie and Judy Murray.

As sponsor of the GB Davis Cup Team for 2008, the company is also official water supplier to the Lawn Tennis Association and will be supplied at all major LTA events during the year, including the international tournaments staged at Eastbourne, Nottingham and Edgbaston. 

For stockist enquiries call 01764 660500.

- Ends –

Highland Spring, the UK’s leading bottled water producer, has teamed up with games giant Nintendo and tennis sensation Andy Murray, to launch an exciting new on-pack promotion. 

Launching in May 2008, consumers will have the chance to win Nintendo Wii games consoles, as well as the opportunity to join the UK’s No.1 tennis professional, Andy Murray, for a Nintendo Wii tennis match at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton. 

To enter the free prize draw, consumers can register via text message or on the dedicated competition website at www.gowiild.co.uk.  Each week, one lucky winner will receive a Nintendo Wii games console and 32 finalists will travel to Roehampton to meet Andy Murray, with one lucky winner having the chance to test their skills against him in a Nintendo Wii Tennis challenge. 

Sally Stanley, marketing director at Highland Spring, commented: “Highland Spring is committed to supporting British tennis and reinforcing the health benefits of staying hydrated during sport.  In the run up to Wimbledon, our Go Wiild with Andy Murray sales promotion is a fantastic way of communicating this.”

This exclusive promotion will feature on the majority of Highland Spring’s retail packs from May 2008.  

Highland Spring is the exclusive beverage sponsor to Andy Murray, who hails from Dunblane, Perthshire, just 10 miles from the company’s bottling plant.  Highland Spring also supports Jamie and Judy Murray.

As sponsor of the GB Davis Cup Team for 2008, the company is also official water supplier to the Lawn Tennis Association and will be supplied at all major LTA events during the year, including the international tournaments staged at Eastbourne, Nottingham and Edgbaston. 

For stockist enquiries call 01764 660500.

- Ends –

Issued by
Sarah Ormerod / Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
0141 221 0707
Email – sormerod@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

The LTA today announced that Highland Spring will continue its sponsorship of the GB Davis Cup team for 2008 whilst also signing up as the first Official Supplier in the LTA’s new commercial programme.

The new deal will see Highland Spring branding appear on all Davis Cup team wear at the forthcoming tie against Argentina in Buenos Aires and again on future ties throughout the year. Also, as Official Supplier to the LTA, Highland Spring will be present at all major LTA events including each of the International events staged at Eastbourne, Nottingham and Edgbaston.

Highland Spring is the first brand to commit to the new commercial programme launched by the LTA. The new programme will see the LTA reduce the number of commercial partners down from 48 to around 10.

Sally Stanley, Marketing Director of Highland Spring said: “Developing our association with tennis is integral to our sports sponsorship campaign. This new LTA partnership and our continued support for the GB Davis Cup team provides us with an excellent platform to showcase the Highland Spring brand and demonstrates our long term commitment to supporting British tennis. It’s also important for us to forge the link between active sports and good hydration and tennis does this perfectly.”

Roger Draper, Chief Executive of the LTA said: “We’re delighted to be continuing our relationship with Highland Spring and look forward to working with them over the coming years. We have made no secret of the fact that British tennis is looking for commercial partners to assist us in transforming the sport over the next five to ten years and having a brand as prestigious as Highland Spring is a perfect way to kick start our new commercial programme.”

ENDS

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

LTA: Rhian Evans
0208 487 7118
07971 141 332
Rhian.Evans@LTA.org.uk

Highland Spring: Eve Robertson/Alison Downs
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707 / 07974 193 897
E: Robertson@3x1.com/adowns@3x1.com

For the first time, Highland Spring has been unveiled as official water supplier to Sport Relief 2008, taking place nationwide from Friday 14 – Sunday 16 March. 

Sport Relief harnesses the power and passion of sport to change people’s lives for the better.  Comic Relief spends the money raised through Sport Relief to help vulnerable people living incredibly tough lives both at home in the UK and across the world’s poorest countries. 

The Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile sits at the heart of the Sport Relief Campaign where people across the UK will be challenging themselves, their friends and their family to do a mile and raise some money.  There are 23 big city Mile events and over 200 locally organised miles on Sunday 16 March.  Highland Spring will supply 200,000 bottles of water to keep milers hydrated and full of energy on the big day. 

As the UK’s leading producer of bottled water, Highland Spring is committed to forging a link between active sport and good hydration.  Richard Beeston, marketing director, said: “Sport Relief is widely recognised as a landmark event on the fundraising calendar.  Not only is the event a good way of reinforcing the health benefits of staying hydrated during sport, but it is great to be involved in such a worthwhile event.”

Highland Spring’s sponsorship is a natural extension to its already extensive sports sponsorship portfolio.  The company is the exclusive drinks sponsor to Andy Murray, Wimbledon mixed doubles champion Jamie Murray and the boys’ mum Judy Murray.

Highland Spring was also one of six “major supporters” of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid.

- Ends –

Issued by
Sarah Ormerod / Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
0141 221 0707
E: sormerod@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

Notes to editor
• Sport Relief Weekend will take place from Friday 14 – Saturday 16 March.  For more information go to www.sportrelief.com
• Big town and city miles are taking place:
- Birmingham – Centenary Square
- Brighton & Hove – Madeira Drive
- Bristol – Harbourside
- Cardiff – Cardiff Bay
- Coventry – The Old Council House
- Edinburgh – West Princess Street Gardens
- Gateshead – Saltwell Park
- Glasgow – Glasgow Green
- Hull – Queen Victoria Square
- Ipswich – Portman Road
- Leeds – Roundhay Park
- Liverpool – Liverpool Waterfront
- London – Central
- Manchester – Albert Square
- Middlesbrough – MIMA & The Guildhall
- Milton Keynes – Midsummer Boulevard
- Norwich – St Peters Street
- Nottingham – Victoria Embankment
- Sheffield – Millennium Square
- Southampton – Palmerston Road
- Swansea – National Waterfront Museum

Film legend Faye Dunaway will fly into London from Los Angeles to present a prize at the 18th British Comedy Awards on Wednesday (5 December).

The Oscar-winning star of Network, Chinatown and Bonnie & Clyde will be joined onstage by pop superstar Lily Allen and comedian Bill Bailey.

All three were named today as presenters for the glittering awards, hosted by Jonathan Ross and sponsored by Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of bottled water.

The 2007 show can already boast a near-complete line-up of nominees attending – even though it has yet to find a confirmed TV slot, pending the completion of investigations into phone voting irregularities.

Michael Hurll, executive producer, British Comedy Awards promises the show will lose none of its sparkle as a result. He said:  "As the naughty teenager of British Comedy comes of age this year, we expect the usual outrageous behaviour.  In fact, we're banking on it."

Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring said: “The British Comedy Awards is the premier UK awards event and we are delighted to be able to support some of the finest comedy talent on the occasion of the 18th annual show. This is our second year as broadcast and event sponsor and we’re looking forward to another unpredictable night of celebrating the very best in UK comedy.”

Among the many confirmed to be in attendance are Best TV Comedy Actor nominees Jack Dee (nominated for Lead Balloon), Kevin Bishop (Star Stories) and Lee Mack (Not Going Out) and Best Comedy Entertainment Personality contenders Alan Carr and Justin Lee Collins (The Friday Night Project).

Also confirmed are Best Male Comedy Newcomer hopeful Matt Berry (The IT Crowd) and newcomer Kayvan Novak, nominated for Best New Comedy Entertainment Programme (Fonejacker).

As famous for its outrageous moments as its who’s who of comedy winners, Britain’s best-loved – and most watched – awards show this year sees the BBC leading the way with 18 nominations, followed by Channel 4 with seven (plus a further two for E4 and More4).

For further information
Dee McCourt/Laura Woods
0207 404 3000 / 07917 167 805
dee@borkowski.co.uk / laura@borkowski.co.uk

As a major supporter of Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games bid, Highland Spring is today (Friday 9 November) celebrating as Glasgow is named host city.
The announcement was made from Sri Lanka as members from the Glasgow bid team, including representatives from Highland Spring, beat off stiff competition from Abuja in Nigeria.
The 20th Commonwealth Games in 2014 will be the biggest event of any kind ever hosted by Scotland bringing 6,000 athletes and officials from 71 nations
and watched by hundreds of thousands of spectators worldwide. 
Since September 2006, Highland Spring has helped promote Glasgow’s “Back Scotland’s Bid” campaign through on-pack promotions, lorry livery, a competition to win a trip to a Commonwealth country, a kids’ flag design promotion and coaching clinic campaign with sporting heroes.  In addition Highland Spring provided water for many bid related events.
Commenting on the win, Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring, a major supporter of Glasgow’s 2014 bid, said: “This is fantastic news, we are absolutely delighted. It’s been a marvellous campaign to support and is excellent news not only for Glasgow but for Scotland and the rest of the UK, and the many young athletic hopefuls who will benefit enormously from the Games in 2014.  There is nothing like seeing competitive sport at first hand to get kids motivated, especially on home ground and this is a great opportunity to encourage thousands of children to participate in new sporting activities. 
“As a long-term sponsor of many national and international sporting events we are committed to forging the link between active sport and good hydration and we are especially proud to have been involved in Glasgow 2014.
  “I’d like to say a huge congratulations to the bid team. They have worked so hard to help Glasgow win the bid and they deserve this result 100%.”

Issued by:
Sarah Ormerod/Alison Downs
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707
E: sormerod@3x1.com/adowns@3x1.com

The biggest names in comedy and television will gather in London on Wednesday 5 december for the 18th British Comedy Awards, sponsored by Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of bottled water.

As famous for its outrageous moments as its who’s who of comedy winners, Britain’s best-loved – and most watched – awards show will once again be hosted by Jonathan Ross at ITV’s London Studios.

This year’s nominations, announced today, pit several rising stars of comedy’s new generation against some of television’s more familiar faces. They also find, for the first time, a double-act competing for the biggest prize.
 
The Friday Night Project’s two presenters Alan Carr and Justin Lee Collins are jointly nominated for Best Comedy Entertainment Personality against Stephen Fry for QI and Simon Amstell, the former Popworld presenter turned host of Never Mind The Buzzcocks.
 
Leading the way with seven nominations across five categories is BBC Three’s comedy series Gavin & Stacey, written by – and starring – Ruth Jones and James Corden. 
 
The show is nominated for both Best British Comedy and Best New Television Comedy, while Jones and Corden are each nominated as Best Comedy Newcomers in the male and female categories – along with their co-stars Matthew Horne and Joanna Page.
 
Ruth Jones is also nominated for Best Television Comedy Actress, not just for Gavin & Stacey but also for her role in Saxondale, in a three-way contest with Catherine Tate and comedy veteran Liz Smith.
 
The award for Best Television Comedy Actor sees a four-way fight between Jack Dee (for Lead Balloon) and Lee Mack (Not Going Out), and two of the newer faces on TV, David Mitchell (Peep Show) and Kevin Bishop (Star Stories).
 
Dee is going for a hat-trick of prizes after winning Best TV Personality in 1995 and Best Stage Newcomer in 1991.
 
The BBC leads the way in the awards, with 18 nominations, and seven for Channel 4 (plus a further two for E4 and More4).
 
Michael Hurll, executive producer, British Comedy Awards said "As the naughty teenager of British Comedy comes of age this year, we expect the usual outrageous behaviour.  In fact, we're banking on it."
 
Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring, said: “This is our second year as broadcast and event sponsor of the British Comedy Awards.  The UK continues to produce some of the world’s finest comedians and Highland Spring is delighted to support the UK’s premier comedy awards event, which recognises the cream of British comedy talent. As ever, and perhaps especially on the 18th anniversary of the show, I’m sure there will be plenty of entertainment and drama to mark the occasion in style. 
 

For further information 

Dee McCourt 07803 726543/Laura Woods 0207 404 3000

Email - dee@borkowski.co.uk or laura@borkowski.co.uk
 

For the second year running, Highland Spring is official broadcast sponsor of the National Television Awards.
 
Broadcast on ITV 1 tonight (Wednesday 31 October), and hosted by Sir Trevor Macdonald, the National Television Awards celebrate the best of British TV and command an audience of up to 6.9 million viewers. Top programmes including the X-Factor, Eastenders and Coronation Street are all short listed for awards.
 
Highland Spring has produced new idents which will be broadcast before and after each commercial break of both the main show on ITV 1 and post show on ITV 2. Created by Glasgow-based agency, merle, the idents are set on Highland Spring’s protected organic land.  Evening is falling, and the characters based on the rocks and thistles that live there are settling down after a hard day on the hillside to enjoy some conversation and a night in front of the TV.  
 
Claire Wilson, marketing manager for Highland Spring said: “This is our second year of sponsoring the National Television Awards and is an excellent opportunity for our brand to reach a national audience.
 
“It’s great to see so many talented actors being recognised for their hard work and we wish them all the best of luck.”
 
-Ends- 

Issued by: Alison Downs/Sarah Ormerod
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707
E: adowns@3x1.com/sormerod@3x1.com
 

Highland Spring has announced a record year today (Monday 8 October) for the year ended 31 December 2006.  Turnover increased to £54.2 million (2005: £51.6 million) up five per cent, pre-tax profits grew to  £4.1 million (2005: £3.2 million) up 28 per cent, and litre sales of the brand improved 12 per cent to 179 million litres (2005: 160 million litres).
 
The UK’s leading producer of bottled water, also secured second place in the overall bottled water market from Volvic. (Zenith 2007) And with a 7.9 per cent brand share in 2006 – up 12 per cent from 2005 – Highland Spring is edging closer to market leader Evian.
 
Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring said: “The substantial increase in turnover and profit is the result of our continued commitment to grow the brand ahead of the market and continued investment for future success. An exceptionally warm summer in 2006 coupled with successful sales and marketing activities also contributed towards the results.
 
“This year some £3 million is being invested in additional production facilities to help meet future demand and upgrade existing bottling lines. Despite bad weather this summer, we are still growing ahead of the market quite considerably, at 1.5 per cent versus a market decline of 3.3 per cent in total take home.”
 
In August 2007, the company launched the first kids’ sparkling water with a variant of Highland Spring for Kids, the number one children’s bottled water.  The kids’ bottled water sector remains buoyant, having reached 15.8 million litres already, with huge opportunities for further growth. Highland Spring pioneered the children’s bottled water market in 2001 and today Highland Spring for Kids has a 25 per cent brand share. (AC Nielsen Sept 2007)
 
Producing one million bottles a day, Highland Spring is the fastest growing top five brand in the UK. (AC Nielsen Sept 2007)
 
As the leading brand in the sparkling sector, Highland Spring sells nearly three times more than its nearest competitor in the take home market, San Pellegrino, and consolidated the number one sparkling position in 2006 with 14.2 per cent growth compared to market growth of 1.7 per cent, achieving a 13.1 per cent share of the sparkling sector in 2006. (Zenith 2007)
 
Stanley concluded: “We’ve had an extremely strong year for the brand so far, with a number of new high profile sponsorships including The GB Davis Cup Team, Team Murray - Andy, Jamie and Judy -  and major supporters of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid, all of which are helping take  Highland Spring to an even higher level of performance.”
 
-Ends- 

Notes to Editors

·         Highland Spring reported a turnover of £54.2 million in 2006. It is the biggest employer in Blackford with 330 employees.
·         Gleneagles Spring Water Company Ltd reported a turnover of £3 million and a profit of £68,000 in 2006.
 

Issued by:
Alison Downs/Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707/07879 621139
E:adowns@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com
 
 
 

Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of bottled water, is launching a sparkling version of its best selling children’s brand, Highland Spring for Kids.
 
The first sparkling kids’ water, it is ideal for lunchboxes and kids’ parties, packaged in a handy 12-pack of 330ml bottles, designed to fit little hands easily.
 
Highland Spring pioneered the children’s bottled water market and today Highland Spring for Kids is the number one kids’ water brand in the UK.  The company is committed to encouraging British children to get active and drink more water. Sporting heroes like tennis ace Andy Murray already back the company’s hydration campaign.
 
Research by the bottled water company reveals 89 per cent of children don’t drink the recommended six to eight glasses of water a day. (TNS April 2007)
 
Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring, said: “Many mums find it very difficult to get their children to drink plain water which is the most effective drink for good hydration. We believe Highland Spring for Kids sparkling will be a great way to encourage children who don’t often drink water to try it. The more children are encouraged to drink water regularly, still or sparkling, the better.”
 
Juliette Kellow, a leading nutritionist said: “Children are at particular risk of dehydration because they don’t understand how important it is to drink regularly. Water is the best drink for children because it’s free from fat, sugar, salt and additives. But kids love the idea of fizz and bubbles, so sparkling water is an excellent new way of encouraging kids to get enough fluid to stay hydrated.”
 
Highland Spring is also Britain’s No1 sparkling brand. New Highland Spring for Kids sparkling is available from Sainsbury’s from August priced at £3.35 for a pack of 12.

Notes to editors

1. Highland Spring for Kids still and sparkling is drawn from the same protected organic land as the parent brand, beneath the Ochil Hills in Perthshire, Scotland.

Issued by:

Alison Downs/Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707/07879 621139
E: adowns@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of bottled water, is officially launching a new sponsorship with Scottish Formula 1 ace, David Coulthard.
 
The partnership was launched as David prepared to race in his 220th Grand Prix at Silverstone on Sunday 8 July.
 
Highland Spring’s logo appears on David’s crash helmet chin bar and fan baseball cap, reaching a global audience of tens of millions.  The Scots driver has already notched up 517 F1 World Championship points, making him the highest scoring British driver in Grand Prix history.
 
Highland Spring is a long term supporter of UK and international sport. Joe Beeston, chief executive of Highland Spring said: “We supported David Coulthard in his first years of racing and it’s an honour for us to be working with him again. David is a great example of a Scottish sporting hero with an international reputation and is proof that Britain is a hub of sporting talent.”
 
Red Bull Racing driver, David Coulthard said: “Highland Spring was a key supporter during my formative years and I am delighted to carry their logo within my personal helmet colours throughout the world for this exciting Grand Prix season.”

 Issued by:

Alison Downs/Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707/07879 621139
E: adowns@3x1.com/erobterson@3x1.com

Congratulations to Jamie Murray after his mixed doubles title victory at Wimbledon on Sunday evening.  
 
Playing on centre court immediately after the men’s single final, Jamie and his partner won 6-4, 3-6, 6-1. 
 
Cheered on by younger brother Andy Murray, Britain’s No.1 men’s singles player, and their Mum and Dad, Judy and Willie, Jamie is the first British winner of a Grand Slam title at the championships for 20 years.
 
Well done Jamie and may there be many more victories ahead of you!
 

Issued by:

Alison Laing/Eve Robertson
3x1
T: 0141 221 0707
E: alaing@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

Highland Spring is unveiling its new Highland Spring for Kids format with an exciting Andy Murray on-pack to win a tennis trip for a family of four to Saddlebrook Resort in Florida.
 
It is the first Andy Murray on-pack Highland Spring has created since it was unveiled as exclusive soft drink’s sponsor to Andy.
 
The prize, worth over £5,000, includes a visit to one of America’s most luxurious resorts which is home to the Saddlebrook Tennis Centre.  The complex features 45 courts in every grand slam surface and the world-renowned Harry Hopman Tennis Program, which provides instruction at all levels from beginners to touring professionals.  Fifty runners up will each win a signed Andy Murray tennis t-shirt.
 
The new pack features vibrant imagery of Andy Murray and will appeal to kids and parents alike.  New research from Highland Spring has revealed that 43% of boys and 29% of girls would be more likely to buy bottled water if one of their favourite sports stars drank it. (TNS Kids Online Omnibus 2007).
 
The new pack will be on-shelf throughout May and June to coincide with Wimbledon fever and will be available in all multiple grocers.
 
Highland Spring for Kids is changing from a 3x4 to a 6x2 pack, making it easier for retailers to merchandise and allowing consumers to store bottles in the fridge more easily.
 
Highland Spring for Kids is the number one children’s bottled water in the UK with      26 per cent volume share.  The kids’ bottled water market has exceeded 16 million litres and is one of the fastest growing categories in the soft drinks market.  Highland Spring forecasts the market will reach 40 million litres by 2010 and new research has revealed 33 per cent of parents like to give their children bottled water at home, showing huge potential for sales in convenience stores and independent retailers. (NOP April 2007).
 
Debbie Smith, marketing manager of Highland Spring, said: “We are anticipating a great response to our new Andy Murray on-pack.  The prize offers the ultimate in luxury and is perfect for families who love tennis or who want to learn.”
 
“The reconfigured packs will give retailers more options for merchandising and is the perfect size for storing in the fridge.  Parents, more than ever before, recognise the importance of keeping children properly hydrated and with the market continuing to show massive potential its important retailers and consumers are given the best possible product.” 

Issued by:

Alison Downs/ Eve Robertson
 3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707
E: adowns@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com
 

As a major supporter of Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid, Highland Spring is unveiling Commonwealth Bid themed vehicle livery to celebrate National Commonwealth Day, today, Monday 12 March.

Commonwealth Games athletes Allan Scott, a champion hurdler, and Scottish indoor long jump champion Gillian Cook were on hand at the company’s headquarters in Blackford, Perthshire to help launch the initiative.

The livery features a striking image of two Commonwealth athletes exchanging a bottle of Highland Spring in the style of a relay baton. The imagery appears on selected vehicles which transport Highland Spring to its main UK markets.

Staff at the Blackford plant will be joining in the Commonwealth Day celebrations and raising money for The Scottish Commonwealth Games Youth Trust by paying £1 to take part in a Commonwealth quiz. There will also be a 2014 goody bag giveaway and the opportunity to wear trainers to work to get into the sporting spirit.

Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring said: "As a major supporter of Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid we wanted to show our support in an engaging and motivating way, which we think captures the spirit and enthusiasm of Glasgow’s Bid."

World No 14 tennis sensation, Andy Murray who is currently competing in the ATP Masters in Indian Wells, was born in Glasgow and is also sponsored by Highland Spring. He said: "Securing the 2014 Commonwealth Games will be one of Scotland’s biggest sporting achievements so it’s important everybody backs the bid. It’s also a great opportunity to encourage kids to get active and play more sport. I wish the Glasgow Bid and its supporters every success."

As the UK’s leading supplier of bottled water producing one million bottles a day, Highland Spring is a long-term supporter of UK sport and international sporting events and is committed to forging a link between active sports and good hydration.

Notes to editors

1. A selection of images have been wired to your picture desk by Alan Richardson (T: 07831 413 094 )
2. Glasgow is competing with one other city to host the Games in 2014 – Abuja in Nigeria. The announcement will be made on 9 November 2007 in Sri Lanka.
3. As a “Major Supporter” Highland is working closely with the 2014 team to maximise awareness and support for the bid, providing the unique advertising medium of its bottle labels as part of this marketing campaign. Throughout 2007, the Glasgow 2014 major supporter logo will be present on the following labels: 500ml sports bottle, 750ml sports bottle, 1.5l still and sparkling and Highland Spring for Kids.
4. The 20th Commonwealth Games in 2014 would be the biggest event of any kind ever hosted by Scotland, bringing 6,000 athletes and officials from 71 nations, watched by hundreds of thousands of spectators worldwide.
5. The other official major supporters to the Bid announced so far are Clydesdale Bank, First Group, O2 and BBC Scotland.
6. To back Scotland’s Commonwealth Games Bid, visit www.glasgow2014.com

For more information or photography contact:

Eve Robertson / Alison Downs
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707 / 07974 193 897
E: erobertson@3x1.com / adowns@3x1.com

on-pack promotion worth over £5000. The prize includes a trip for four people to a Commonwealth country of their choice.

The Commonwealth packs feature the official Glasgow 2014 major supporter logo and vibrant sporting imagery depicting popular Commonwealth sports, including cycling, athletics, rugby and tennis. The promotion will run on the 500ml and 750ml individual sports bottles, 6 x 1.5l still, 4 x 1.5l sparkling, 6 x 500ml sports and Highland Spring for Kids variants.

The promotion is the first activity the company has undertaken since it was unveiled as a major supporter of the bid in September 2006. Throughout 2007 Highland Spring will be promoting Glasgow’s “Back Scotland’s Bid” campaign. Activities will include Commonwealth themed lorry livery and the provision of Highland Spring for many bid related events.

Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring said: “This is the first of a number of significant Commonwealth marketing initiatives we will be rolling out this year, all of which we hope will promote the 2014 Bid and encourage youngsters to get involved in active sports."

"Our latest on pack promotion is the perfect platform to highlight our involvement in Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Bid. Not only will the promotion encourage all Highland Spring customers to back the bid, it will also raise awareness of the campaign across the UK.

As the UK’s leading supplier of bottled water producing one million bottles a day, Highland Spring is long-term supporter of UK sport and international sporting events and is committed to forging a link between active sports and good hydration.

The Highland Spring Win a Trip to a Commonwealth Country on-pack will be available in grocery retailers from mid February and throughout March.

Notes to editors

1. The winner will be able to take their prize in 2008.
2. Glasgow is competing with two other cities to host the Games in 2014 – Halifax in Canada and Abuja in Nigeria. The announcement will be made on 9 November 2007 in Sri Lanka.
3. Formed in 1979, Highland Spring is the UK’s leading bottled water producer and number one kids’ brand in the UK.
4. As a “Major Supporter” Highland Spring has permission to use the Glasgow 2014 brand identity and major supporter logo. The company is working closely with the 2014 team to maximise awareness and support for the bid, providing the unique advertising medium of its bottle labels as part of this marketing campaign.
5. Throughout 2007, the Glasgow 2014 major supporter logo will be present on the following labels: 500ml sports bottle, 750ml sports bottle, 1.5l still and sparkling and Highland Spring for Kids.
6. The 20th Commonwealth Games in 2014 would be the biggest event of any kind ever hosted by Scotland, bringing 6,000 athletes and officials from 71 nations, watched by hundreds of thousands of spectators worldwide.
7. The other official major supporters to the Bid announced so far are Clydesdale Bank, First Group and O2.
8. To back Scotland’s Commonwealth Games Bid, visit www.glasgow2014.com

For more information or photography contact:

Eve Robertson / Alison Downs
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707 / 07974 193 897
E: erobertson@3x1.com / adowns@3x1.com

Andy Murray, the world No17 and Britain’s No1 professional tennis player, has signed a major new sponsorship deal with Highland Spring, the UK’s leading bottled water producer. It is believed to be the biggest patch deal in tennis worldwide

From January 1, he will start the new tennis season wearing Highland Spring’s logo on his shirt when he plays in the Qatar ExxonMobil Open in Doha, before competing in the Australian Open in Melbourne on January 15

The 19-year-old tennis star hails from Dunblane, only 10 miles from the Perthshire company’s bottling plant.

Andy will now feature as a sporting ambassador in Highland Spring’s PR and marketing campaign. As part of the multi-year deal, he will wear the brand logo on his left sleeve during all major tournaments and drink the water as part of his regular dietary regime.

Highland Spring is also the new official water sponsor to ‘Team Murray’ which includes Andy’s older brother Jamie, the UK’s leading doubles specialist ranked 77th in the world and mum Judy, Scotland’s former national tennis coach.

Good hydration

Highland Spring is the No1 kids’ water brand in the UK. The company is committed to forging the link between active sports and good hydration and for the last five years has championed healthier drinking among British schoolchildren.

Commenting on his new exclusive drinks sponsor, Andy Murray said: “I’m proud to wear the Highland Spring logo at tournaments around the world since I love the product and it’s a fantastic Scottish brand from my home in Perthshire.

"Proper hydration is now playing a bigger role in my fitness and training regime with my coach [Brad Gilbert] encouraging me to drink much more water than before to keep me at the top of my game. When I’m competing in a hot climate, I can drink up to four litres a day. I think more British kids should start drinking plain water from an early age and I’m looking forward to helping Highland Spring with their hydration campaign."

Commenting on the new partnership, Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring, said: “We’re so enthusiastic about supporting Andy as his winning spirit is a breath of fresh air. He is a fantastic ambassador for British tennis and his natural talent and dedication to succeed is an inspiration to young people.

"Andy is a great role model for British schoolchildren and he shares our passion for getting kids active and healthy while having some fun. We hope our association with Team Murray will encourage more children to take up new active sports like tennis and drink water instead of sugary soft drinks."

"As a world-class tennis player of his stature and appeal, this sponsorship provides us with another global platform to showcase the Highland Spring brand."

Patricio Apey, Murray’s manager added: "Despite his hectic schedule, Andy spends a lot of his spare time helping to coach and encourage kids to get the most out of the sport he loves. He is a natural ambassador, not just for tennis, but sport in general. It is great to have Highland Spring as Andy’s new drinks sponsor. It’s a perfect brand fit and we are looking forward to a hugely successful partnership."

Notes to Editors:

1. Photography of Andy Murray is being sent to picture desks today from Alan Richardson.
2. Andy Murray is one of only two players (alongside Rafael Nadal) to have beaten world No1 Roger Federer in 2006 at the Cincinnati Masters. He became the first Scottish winner of a junior Grand Slam Championship when he won the US Open Boys title in September 2004 aged 17. When he turned professional in 2005 he was the first British teenager (aged 19) to get a world top 100 ranking for 21 years.
3. As an elite athlete Andy Murray requires to drink up to four litres of water a day when training or competing. The recommended daily intake of water for adults is two litres and varies from 0.9 litres for very small children to two litres for teenagers (Institute of Medicine of the National Academies).
4. Highland Spring is the UK’s leading producer of bottled water with a 15.4 per cent share of UK bottled water production (Zenith 2006); the No1 kids’ bottled water with 31 per cent brand share of kids’ water sector and No1 sparkling water with 17% brand share of sparkling sector (AC Nielsen)
5. Already a "major supporter" of Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid, Highland Spring is a vigorous, long-term supporter of UK sport and international sporting events including rugby union, golf, mountain biking, athletics, running, windsurfing, snooker and bowls.

Interviews with Sally Stanley or Patricio Apey (Andy Murray’s agent) can be arranged by contacting:

Alison Downs/Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707
Mobiles: 07879 621139 or 07974 193897
adowns@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

To mark its sponsorship of the 2006 British Comedy Awards, Highland Spring is revealing specially created idents, which pay tribute to some of the classic British comedy acts and sketches.

The UK’s leading producer of bottled water is both title sponsor and broadcast sponsor of the event and after show party broadcast live on ITV 1 and ITV 2 on Wednesday 13 December at 21.00 and 22.30 respectively.

The new idents, created by Glasgow based agency, merle, will appear before and after each commercial break and will be seen by up to 10 million viewers during the main live show.

The 15 new executions include Pure Comedy featuring famous comedy props such as a fez hat and a set of groucho marx glasses and nose resting on a bottle of Highland Spring, and Pure Satire with four bottles of Highland Spring around an old fashioned radio microphone.

The company is also sponsor of the People’s Choice Award - the shortlist includes Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway; Extras; 8 out of 10 cats; Friday Night with Jonathan Ross and Little Britain. Sally Stanley, Highland Spring’s marketing director, will introduce the award on stage at the ceremony on 13 December.

Now in its 17th year, The British Comedy Awards are hosted by Jonathan Ross and bring together the very best in British comedy talent. The event is not only synonymous with the celebration of our top comedy actors, but for being a notoriously unpredictable evening.

The sponsorship is part of a hat-trick package with ITV, negotiated through Spirit Media, which also saw the brand as broadcast sponsor to both the British Soap Awards and the National Television Awards. Sally Stanley, marketing director said: “This sponsorship trio has been a great brand building opportunity. Not only has it allowed us to reach a combined audience of more than 24 million but has also given us the opportunity to showcase the brand at some of British television’s A-list events.”

Issued by:

Alison Downs/Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707
E: adowns@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

Highland Spring is announcing a £1 million investment in snooker – the company’s biggest ever sponsorship deal. It will see the world’s top three players, Stephen Hendry, Ken Doherty and Ronnie O’Sullivan joined by 12 other snooker personalities in Team Highland Spring.

The three year sponsorship deal is announced today (Thursday 23 November) as the players prepare for the final set of group qualifying matches in the Betfred Premier League in Aberdeen.

The Highland Spring logo will appear on the players’ waistcoats with the brand expected to be seen by more than 200 million viewers during 300 hours of televised coverage a year on BBC Sport, BBC Interactive, Sky Sports and Eurosport.

The UK’s leading producer of bottled water is also launching a further three year deal as the official water supplier to World Snooker, the professional game’s governing body and the next main tour event will be the UK Championship being held between 4-17 December in York.

Already a major supporter of Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games bid, Highland Spring is a vigorous supporter of UK sport. The company is a long term sponsor of many high profile national and international sports including rugby union, golf, mountain biking, athletics, running, windsurfing and bowls and is committed to forging the link between sport and good hydration.

Joe Beeston, chief executive of Highland Spring said: “Highland Spring has enjoyed a long standing relationship with snooker since 1998. This deal is a fantastic coup for the brand as we continue to expand our association with world class sportspeople and showcase the brand to a global audience.”

Seven times world champion, Stephen Hendry MBE said: “Snooker is increasing in popularity with more and more youngsters entering the sport. It’s important they understand the benefits of good hydration during sport and how it helps you stay focused and perform to the best of your ability. Highland Spring is a natural brand to help communicate that message.”

Issued by:
Alison Downs / Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707 / 07879 621139
E: adowns@3x1.com / erobertson@3x1.com

As broadcast sponsor of the National Television Awards, Highland Spring has created new idents to top and tail each commercial break during the shows on ITV 1 and ITV 2 which command 6.9 million viewers.
 
The National Television Awards is a landmark event in the show biz calendar. Hosted by Sir Trevor Macdonald, the principal show will be broadcast on Wednesday 1 November on ITV 1, with pre-show and after-show programmes on ITV 2.  Nominees for this year’s awards include Ant and Dec, Davina McCall, Noel Edmonds and Chantelle Houghton from Celebrity Big Brother.
 
The new idents celebrate the many genres of television brought to UK viewers in a light hearted and entertaining way by revealing Highland Spring in a variety of typical television environments.
 
The executions include Pure Daytime featuring two bottles of Highland Spring sitting “chatting” on little comfy couches, Pure Celebrity Kitchen featuring a bottle of Highland Spring alongside a saddleback piglet and Pure Wannabe featuring a bottle of Highland Spring sporting a talent show audition number.
 
Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring said: “Our sponsorship of the National TV Awards is an excellent brand building opportunity for Highland Spring, allowing us to reach a national TV audience on an occasion when viewers can enjoy seeing many of their favourite TV personalities acclaimed for their contributions to TV during 2006.”

Issued by:

Alison Downs/Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707
E: adowns@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

Highland Spring was unveiled as one of four ‘Major Supporters’ of Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid in an announcement by Jack McConnell MSP, First Minister of Scotland today (11 September 2006).

As the UK’s leading supplier of bottled water producing one million bottles a day, the Perthshire company will promote Glasgow’s “Back Scotland’s Bid” campaign through joint marketing initiatives including on-pack promotions and the provision of Highland Spring for many bid related events.

The other major supporters include Clydesdale Bank, First Group and 02. The 20th Commonwealth Games in 2014 would be the biggest event of any kind ever hosted by Scotland bringing 6,000 athletes and officials from 71 nations, watched by hundreds of thousands of spectators worldwide.

Commenting on why the Commonwealth bid is a perfect fit to Highland Spring’s sports portfolio, Sally Stanley, marketing director said: “We are already a major supporter of UK sport and a long-term sponsor of many national and international events sports and sporting events including rugby union, golf, mountain biking, running, athletics, snooker, bowls, windsurfing and tennis.

“We are committed to forging the link between active sport and good hydration and especially to encourage schoolchildren to adopt healthier drinking habits. Winning the bid would be a terrific opportunity to encourage thousands of Scottish children to participate in new sporting activities. There is nothing like seeing competitive sport at first hand to get kids motivated and that’s what the bid would bring to Scotland.

“We are passionate about this bid and we will actively support the three key organisations involved - Glasgow City Council, The Scottish Executive and The Commonwealth Games Council for Scotland.”

Speaking in Glasgow's Trades Hall, the First Minister said:

"This is another hugely important day in the race for 2014. Scotland's bid has captured the imagination of Scots everywhere, all of them wanting to send out a message to the Commonwealth that we want to win.

"Today that message gets stronger and it gets louder. Some of our biggest companies have shown their faith in the bid and have made it clear that they are ready to invest in the future of our country. They know that winning will provide a boost to the economy, but they know that it will do more. It will inspire our young people, it will show the world what kind of country Scotland is becoming. That is an investment that will always pay dividends.

"We all know what is at stake. We know that we have a long, difficult road ahead of us. But we also know that with the backing of our businesses and our people we can win these Games for Scotland."

Sports portfolio
Highland Spring is the official natural mineral water supplier to a range of sports and sporting organisations including 20 Scottish rugby union teams, London Wasps, Saracens, NEC Harlequins, Northampton Saints and Sale Sharks.

Highland Spring is also official water supplier to the Professional Footballers’ Association, The Diageo Golf Championship at Gleneagles, World Snooker Association and World Bowls Tour which includes Commonwealth Games champions Alex Marshall and Paul Foster. In addition the company sponsors many running events and hundreds of school sports days across the UK.

Notes to editors

1. Glasgow is competing with two other countries to host the Games in 2014 – Halifax in Canada and Abuja in Nigeria. The announcement will be made on 9 November 2007.
2. Formed in 1979, Highland Spring is the UK’s leading natural mineral water producer and number one kids’ brand in the UK.
3. As a “Major Supporter” Highland Spring will have exclusive access to the Glasgow 2014 brand identity and Glasgow 2014 logo and bid tartan. The company will work closely with the 2014 team to maximise awareness and support for the bid during the bid phase, providing new channels to reach target audiences and also providing a Scotland-wide geographical spread.

For more information or photography contact:

Eve Robertson / Alison Downs / Julie McGarvey
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707 / 07974 193 897
E: erobertson@3x1.com / adowns@3x1.com

Raymond Blanc, Sophie Grigson, Giles Coren and Darina Allen were amongst the judges of this year’s Soil Association Organic Food Awards sponsored by Highland Spring Natural Mineral Water. Winners were presented their awards by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall at a ceremony at Bordeaux Quay in Bristol on 1 September, on the eve of the Soil Association Organic Food Festival and Fortnight.

Gold, silver and bronze awards were presented to the best organic food producers in the UK and ‘special’ awards were presented to individuals for their remarkable contribution to the organic movement.

The Organic Food Awards highlight the imaginative and highly successful ways in which individuals are contributing to the resurgence in organic, local and seasonal food. New ways of sourcing by schools and hospital caterers reflect the trend amongst consumers nationally. The stories behind the awards confirm a confidence in the sector, illustrated by the 30 per cent rise in the organic market last year.

Bolton Primary Care Trust from Lancashire and The Cornwall Food Programme were announced as joint winners of the Highland Spring Local Food Initiative Award and Davenport Vineyards from East Sussex were named as winner of the Wine category also sponsored by Highland Spring Natural Mineral Water.

Sally Stanley, marketing director for Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water said, “As a company harvesting a naturally pure product from organic land in the Highlands of Scotland, Highland Spring is delighted to be the title sponsor of this year’s Organic Food Awards. The high standard of entries has demonstrated the wealth and quality of organic food and drink produced in the UK and we are proud to support the Soil Association in showcasing the very best of these organic products.”

The Soil Association Organic Food Awards, now in their 19th year, are a celebration of the best in organic meats, fruit and vegetables, poultry, beer, baby foods, ready meals, and dairy, amongst other products.

Issued by:

Eve Robertson/Alison Downs
T: 0141 221 0707 / 07974 193 897
E: erobertson@3x1.com/mailto:alaing@3x1.com.

NEC Harlequins is delighted to announce the new sponsorship of the club by Highland Spring Natural Mineral Water.

The initial one year deal will see Highland Spring’s logo feature on the players’ shorts, training kit as well as on sites within the Twickenham Stoop for the 2006/2007 season. The brand will be the exclusive water provider throughout the stadium.

The new sponsorship was launched by NEC Harlequins players: Ugo Monye; Hal Luscombe; Simon Keogh; Tani Fuga; Simon Miall and Ceri Jones, as they prepared for the London Double Header at Twickenham on Saturday 2 September.

The UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water is also continuing its back of shirt and community team sponsorship of London Wasps and will continue to supply water to London Saracens, giving Highland Spring a strong presence among the leading London based rugby union clubs.

Highland Spring is official natural mineral water supplier to a number of rugby teams across the UK, including 20 in Scotland and Guinness Premiership champions Sale Sharks along with London Wasps, Saracens and Northampton Saints.

Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring said: “We are committed to reinforcing the link between active sports and good hydration and we are delighted to be enhancing our support of rugby union in the UK with this new deal with NEC Harlequins. Our comprehensive sports sponsorship portfolio is helping to raise awareness of Highland Spring within the UK sporting community and we also hope, helping to encourage children to drink more water when taking part in active sports.”

Phil Richards, Strength and Nutritional Consultant at NEC Harlequins said: “The hydration of all players is an essential part of the nutritional programme. Players are tested for hydration levels regularly and the provision of Highland Spring Natural Mineral Water will play a vital role in ensuring all squad members are fully hydrated and so deliver peak performance.”

NEC Harlequins Sponsorship Manager Gareth Lloyd said “I am delighted to sign this sponsorship agreement with Highland Spring. Not only will it ensure player hydration but will also ensure all who enjoy the Quins match day experience will also be able to sample the UK’s No 1 produced brand of natural mineral water.”

For more information or photography, please contact:

Gareth Lloyd
NEC Harlequins
02 08410 6039
garethl@quins.co.uk

or

Alison Downs/Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707
adowns@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

Highland Spring, the exclusive bottled water fundraising partner to Breast Cancer Care, is creating a limited edition pink bottle for the charity to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October hoping to raise an additional £40,000 for the charity.

The pink bottle is a first for Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water. Four million ‘hint of pink’ bottles will be produced as part of Highland Spring’s three year Pure & Natural fundraising campaign through which the company has helped to raise £316,000 to date for Breast Cancer Care.

Available in the 1.5 litre single bottles and 6 x 1.5 litre multi-packs the ‘hint of pink’ bottles will feature the iconic pink ribbon symbol and will encourage people to text PINK to 83338 to support Breast Cancer Care. Each text costs £1.50 (plus standard network charge) with an average donation of £0.90 to Breast Cancer Care and in return they will receive a pink ribbon download to their mobile phone.

Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring said: “Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important fundraising platform for Breast Cancer Care. We decided to create a unique pink bottle this year to draw attention to this vital cause and encourage people to text to make a donation at the same time.

“The water in the bottles is still of course pure Highland Spring Natural Mineral Water sourced from our organic catchment area in Perthshire.”

Breast Cancer Care is the UK’s leading provider of free information, practical assistance and emotional support for those affected by breast cancer, their family and friends. There are 41,000 women and 300 men diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the UK.

Highland Spring’s limited edition pink bottles are available across the UK. Prices start from 54p.

Notes to Editors

1. Highland Spring is the only bottled water sourced from an organic catchment area beneath the Ochil Hills in Perthshire, Scotland.
2. Last November Highland Spring took a team of 80 runners to the New York Marathon to run as part of Team Highland Spring. Runners including GMTV’s Lorraine Kelly and ITN’s Martin Geissler who helped raise more than £200,000 for the charity.
3. Anyone with breast cancer or breast health concerns can get free, confidential support and information from the Breast Cancer Care helpline on 0808 800 6000 or by visiting http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/

Issued by:

Alison Laing/Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707/07879 621139
E: alaing@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

For more information about Breast Cancer Care please contact :

Laura Miller
Breast Cancer Care
T: 020 7384 4602
E: lauram@breastcancercare.org.uk

Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water, has launched a new limited edition Halloween pack of Highland Spring for Kids - the UK’s No1 bottled water for children.
 
The 12 pack of 330ml bottles feature spooky water droplet characters, striking Halloween imagery and a panel for kids to write their name, making it the ideal refreshment for children’s parties.
 
The new Halloween limited edition follows the success of last year’s Halloween pack and the more recent spring themed pack, which proved extremely popular with consumers.
 
Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring said:   “Halloween is a fantastic opportunity for retailers to increase sales of healthy products for children.  Parents are looking for fun and healthy alternatives to other soft drinks at a time when children usually overindulge in too many sugar laden drinks and snacks.
 
The new Halloween packaging is extremely eye catching and will appeal to children and adults alike, and if merchandised correctly, is sure to have a positive impact on sales.”
 
After pioneering the kids’ bottled water market in 2001, Highland Spring has been championing healthier drinking for children and is committed to getting more kids to drink water.
 
Highland Spring for Kids is a 100% natural mineral water harvested from organic land in the Highlands of Scotland, making it an ideal pure and natural refreshment for children.
 
The limited edition Highland Spring for Kids Halloween pack will be widely available throughout all major multiples and selected independent outlets.
 
For trade enquiries call 01764 660 500. 
 

Issued by:

Alison Downs/Eve Robertson
3x1
T: 0141 221 0707/07879 621139
E: adowns@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

For the first time bottled water is more popular in school lunchboxes than fizzy drinks according to a new TNS Lunchbox survey released today (25 July 2006).

The survey revealed 28.4 million school lunchboxes contained bottled water compared to 17.1 million fizzy drinks in 2005.

The research also revealed however that more parents are providing their kids with still fruit juices and squashes as a lunchtime drink, which are often laden with hidden sugars and may contain additives and preservatives. In fact leading nutritionist, Juliette Kellow advises a glass of blackcurrant squash may contain five teaspoons of sugar while some juice drinks contain up to nine teaspoons – more than a can of cola.

With back to school looming, Highland Spring is encouraging parents to pay more attention to their kids’ fluid and water intake since children can be particularly vulnerable to dehydration.

Another new TNS Omnibus survey commissioned by Highland Spring, has revealed most parents don’t recognise the key symptoms of dehydration. Interestingly the majority of parents don’t recognise dark urine as a tell-tale sign of dehydration and 63 per cent don’t associate confusion and irritability as another key symptom.

Dehydration can lead to headaches, poor concentration, constipation, low energy levels and tiredness. Experts agree it’s vital that parents do everything they can to ensure their kids stay properly hydrated throughout the day. Juliette Kellow says: “Children are at particular risk of dehydration because they don’t understand how important it is to drink regularly. Parents should also be aware that the mechanism which tells us when we are thirsty is less sensitive in children so they are less likely to recognise when they need a drink.”

The combination of long school days and not drinking enough fluid can often lead to dehydration for many children.

Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water said: “Parents should not assume their children are drinking enough water during the day just because they are at school. Surprisingly, good quality drinking water is not always available or accessible in schools. Simple measures like giving children bottled water in their school and gym bags will encourage them to stay properly hydrated, as well as improving their overall health and wellbeing.”

Highland Spring is committed to getting more British children to drink more water and have developed some back to school tips for parents:

1. Speak to teachers to find out what water provisions are available for pupils
2. Ask if your child can keep water on their desk to sip throughout lessons
3. Always pack a bottle of water in a school bag – so they’ll be less likely to buy sugary fizzy drinks on the way to and from school
4. Pop a bottle of water in kids’ lunchboxes - as water is the best natural drink for hydration
5. Make sure you pack an extra bottle in their kit bag for sports and activities

Juliette Kellow recommends water as the best drink for children, especially at school: “It’s free from sugar and additives and is an essential part of a healthy balanced diet. It’s also free from calories, so unlike fizzy sugary drinks, water isn’t linked to the growing problem of childhood obesity.”

Highland Spring Natural Mineral Water for Kids is the No1 kids’ bottled water and the only natural mineral water sourced from an organic catchment area in the Highlands of Scotland. Available in a 12 pack of 330ml sports bottles it is ideal for lunchboxes and kids on the go.

Notes to Editors

1. The TNS Lunchbox survey was conducted in June 2006 for Highland Spring, with a sample of 4,200 households.
2. The TNS Water Omnibus Dehydration Survey was conducted in May 2006 for Highland Spring, with a sample of 300 parents in the UK.
3. Favourite lunchbox recipes from Lesley Waters and Normandie Keith are available on request.
4. The Food Standards Agency’s lunchbox survey of English schools (Sept 2004) showed deterioration in drinking habits: only 17 per cent of school lunchboxes with drinks contained unflavoured water (tap or bottled), whereas lunchbox drinks containing sugar increased by a massive 29 per cent to 76 per cent in 2003.

Issued by:

Alison Laing/Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707
>E: alaing@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com
M: 07879 621139

Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water, is reporting its best June on record, putting it well on track for an unprecedented summer sales performance.

The UK’s recent hot June weather, combined with Highland Spring’s distribution gains and extensive product range contributed to total sales of 23,600,000 litres for the brand during June, up 16 per cent on the same period last year.

The fastest growing brand in the UK bottled water market, Highland Spring’s performance in the take home market is up over 32 per cent for the four weeks to 17 June (Source: AC Nielsen).

A proportion of this growth is coming from an increase in demand for sugar free alternatives to fizzy drinks in the fight against obesity among parents of school age children. Highland Spring Natural Mineral Water for Kids is now the No 1 kids’ water brand in the UK, with 30 per cent brand share. The kids’ water sector is growing at 34 %per cent and now represents over 13 million litres per annum.

The company has further increased its dominance of the sparkling sector, growing almost 21 per cent in the 4 weeks to 17 June to achieve 17 per cent brand share of the sparkling sector. Highland Spring now outsells its nearest rival, San Pellegrino, by nearly three to one.

Sally Stanley, marketing director for Highland Spring said: “Our bottling plant in Perthshire is operating 24/7 to meet the demand for Highland Spring this summer and the current heatwave has driven sales even higher than expected in June and into early July. We’re well on track for our best summer ever.”

As the Met Office issues further warnings of heatwave conditions across the south east, this month (July) Highland Spring is ensuring many consumers in London remain hydrated by distributing more than 50,000 complimentary bottles in parks across the capital, including Golden Square, Soho Square and Broadgate Fulcram. This sampling initiative called ‘Pure Scotland’ is in association with VisitScotland and represents the fourth year of joint marketing activity between these two marketing organisations.

New research from Highland Spring reveals only 13 per cent of adults and kids drink the recommended eight glasses of water a day, while 87 per cent of children don’t drink enough water (NOP May 2006).

Notes to Editors

Hydration tips for the hot weather:

1. Most importantly, stay hydrated- this means sipping water regularly, particularly if you are in the sun. Think of water as internal sun cream! Your skin is breathing all the time and losing moisture in hot conditions, so keeping hydrated is essential and don’t stay out in the sun during the hottest times of day if you can avoid it.
2. Remember that if you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated, so keep sipping water during this hot spell to avoid dehydration and if you are taking part in active sports, then your body’s need for water will increase significantly.
3. When we sweat, we lose minerals as well as moisture and it’s the mineral deficiency that makes us crave for salty nibbles when we are thirsty. Sipping a natural mineral water can help keep the nibbles at bay.
4. If you are at home, you can chill your glasses in the fridge for an extra cool glass of water or make ice cubes from your bottled water and liven them up a little by adding shreds of fresh mint or slices of lemon or lime before you freeze them.
5. Remember to take plenty of bottled water when you are travelling or driving. Some doctors agree that dehydration is a major contributor to “road rage” incidents, which often coincide with hot weather. So, travel with bottles of water for you and your passengers, but remember not to drink your own water when you are doing the driving!
6. If you’re stuck in a sweltering office with only a wonky old fan for comfort, a good idea is to freeze some small bottles of water overnight, then next day place these directly in front of the fan’s air stream. This will cool and moisten the air stream and then you can refresh yourself by drinking the water when it has thawed.

- The World Heath Organisation recommends that, as adults lose on average 2.5 litres of water a day, they should consume 1.8 litres of water a day under normal conditions. The balance of our water needs is derived from the fruits, vegetables and other foods in our diet.

- The unique mineral analysis of Highland Spring as detailed on the analysis panel of every bottle shows that Highland Spring is low in mineral salts and suitable for those on a low sodium diet.

- Symptoms of dehydration may include thirst, dizziness and feeling weak and faint.

Issued by:

Debbie Donne
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707
E: ddonne@3x1.com

Following the successful sponsorship of the British Soap Awards 2006, Highland Spring has agreed a new deal with ITV to be broadcast sponsor of the National Television Awards and the British Comedy Awards 2006.

The two new sponsorships come hot on the heels of Highland Spring’s first national TV advertising campaign.

To promote the association between Highland Spring and the awards shows, specially created idents will appear before and after each commercial break during the main broadcast of each show on ITV1 and the pre and post shows on ITV2. Both The National Television Awards and The British Comedy Awards are landmark events in the show business calendar attracting 6.9 million and 4.5 million viewers respectively.

The deal also sees Highland Spring as the event sponsor of the British Comedy Awards and sponsor of each aftershow party.

Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water, said: “The new broadcast sponsorships are a perfect addition to our brand building activity for Highland Spring and an excellent national platform. We have a strong brand placement schedule, with Highland Spring already the water of choice at prestigious televised events such as the BAFTAs and this package gives us further opportunities to showcase the brand.”

The British Soap Awards was broadcast in May and reached more than seven million viewers. It featured a series of idents with a voice-over by Joan Collins. Created by Highland Spring’s advertising agency, merle, the idents reflected soap’s drama and how fundamental Highland Spring is to everyday life. The Highland Spring bottle was depicted in different ‘soap’ scenarios accompanied by humorous or emotive lines such as ‘Pure Heartbreak’ and ‘Pure Seduction’, reinforcing Highland Spring’s purity and the fact that it’s drawn from organic land.”

Issued by:

Alison Laing/Eve Robertson
3x1
T: 0141 221 0707
E: alaing@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

- research shows 87% of kids don’t drink enough water -

In the countdown to back to school Highland Spring is encouraging parents to create healthy lunchboxes and include water to keep kids properly hydrated throughout the day.

Children can easily become dehydrated and Highland Spring is committed to getting British children to drink more water. According to TNS research released today (Tuesday 6 June) 6 per cent of kids don’t drink water during the day and parents believe the majority prefer cola (38 per cent) compared to water (seven per cent).

Lesley Waters, celebrity chef, believes it’s important for children to learn good drinking habits as well as good eating habits at an early age: “It’s important to encourage children to drink something that isn’t loaded with sugar. Bottled water is great for lunchboxes, kids on the go and keeps them really well hydrated.”

Dehydration can lead to headaches, irritability and poor concentration at school. Juliette Kellow, leading nutritionist said: “Children are at risk of dehydration, especially at school, because they don’t understand how important it is to drink regularly. The mechanism that tells us we are thirsty is less sensitive in children so they’re less likely to recognise they need a drink. A bottle of water in a child’s packed lunchbox is a far healthier alternative to fizzy drinks, squash or fruit drinks.”

Beware hidden sugar

With so many drinks choices on the market, parents are increasingly checking the labels as many so called healthy drinks contain hidden sugar such as sucrose, glucose-fructose syrup and glucose syrup.

Juliette Kellow advises that a glass of blackcurrant squash may contain the equivalent of five teaspoons of sugar while some cartons of juice drink may contain up to nine teaspoons of sugar – more than a can of cola.

Although flavoured water is often a route for weaning kids off fizzy drinks, interestingly the research reveals that nearly a third of the children (32 per cent) were not aware that some flavoured waters contain up to five spoonfuls of sugar.

Experts like Juliette Kellow recommend water as the best drink for children, especially at school: “It’s free from sugar and additives and is an essential part of a healthy balanced diet. It’s also free from calories, so unlike fizzy sugary drinks, water isn’t linked to the growing problem of childhood obesity.”

5 tips for a healthy lunchbox

1. Water is best for hydration. Steer clear of fizzy drinks as they tend to be high in sugar.
2. A starchy filler for energy to keep kids fuller for longer – cooked pasta or multigrain breads and rolls.
3. Protein for energy, growth and repair – slices of ham, chicken or turkey or perhaps some oil rich fish to boost your child’s intake of omega-3, important for brain power and concentration.
4. Fruit and veg to help towards their 5 a day – include salad in sandwiches or canned fruit pieces in natural juice.
5. Avoid snacks high in sugar, salt and fat such as crisps and chocolate bars – try a cereal bar or a mini packet of raisins.

Highland Spring for Kids is the No1 kids bottled water and the only natural mineral water sourced from an organic catchment area in the Highlands of Scotland. Available in a 12 pack of 330ml sports bottles it is ideal for lunchboxes.

Notes to Editors

Issued by:

Alison Laing/Eve Robertson
3x1 Public Relations
T: 0141 221 0707
E: alaing@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com
M: 07879 621139

For the first time in the brand’s history, Highland Spring is rolling out a national TV advertising campaign promoting its organic credentials.

The campaign is an extension of the successful pilot in London and Scotland called The Journey, which captures the rollercoaster journey of the water from rain cloud to bottle.

On air from 17 April to mid June 2006, the TV commercial is part of an £11 million brand support campaign. Broadcast on all key ITV terrestrial and multi-channel stations, the commercial features water tumbling through a dramatic Scottish landscape before arriving in a Highland Spring bottle, with the sign off “Drawn from organic land. Reassuringly pure.”

Creative has been developed by Glasgow based agency merle and media bought by Spirit Media Scotland.

Seven new press ads will also appear in lifestyle magazines and newspapers from early April running for the rest of the year. All executions will feature the strapline: ‘Every drop drawn from land certified organic by the Soil Association. Reassuringly pure.’

Highland Spring will also repeat its highly successful “Scotland Underground” campaign on the London Underground this July, with 48 sheets appearing in major stations. Sampling activity will also take place, promoting Highland Spring as the perfect refreshment to beat the heat.

As the first and only British brand of natural mineral water with accreditation for its organic land from the Soil Association, Sally Stanley, marketing director said: “The provenance of Highland Spring is fundamental to our brand strategy. This is further enhanced by our organic land status, which consumers are finding increasingly appealing and reassuring. This advertising campaign captures the essence of Highland Spring perfectly, showing the long journey our water makes through a wild and rugged environment before it reaches the consumer in its pure and natural state, having been filtered through organic land on its way”.

Diane Lurie, director of brand strategy at merle, added: “By depicting Highland Spring’s awesome purity and naturalness the campaign will help more people appreciate that this is a brand of exceptional quality and integrity – a brand they can absolutely trust”

Highland Spring has just revealed new figures showing it is the fastest growing top five bottled water brand in the UK with 7.4 per cent brand share. (Zenith April 2006)

Notes to Editors

Media enquiries:

Alison Laing/Eve Robertson
3x1
T: 0141 221 0707/07879 621139
E: alaing@3x1.com/eroberston@3x1.com

- bottled water market peaks at 2.17 billion litres -

Highland Spring Ltd emerged as the fastest growing top five bottled water brand in the UK, growing by 12.2 per cent compared with market growth of 5.3 per cent according to Zenith International’s new 2005 Bottled Water Performance report released today (Tuesday 4 April).

The company also increased its dominance in the sparkling sector as the number one brand with 13 per cent growth outperforming the sparkling market which grew at 2.5 per cent. Highland Spring still natural mineral water also saw excellent growth up 12 per cent compared to the sector’s growth at 5.7 per cent.

Bottled water is one of the fastest growing categories in the UK soft drinks market and Zenith shows annual sales growing to 2.17 billion litres in 2005 from 2.06 billion litres the previous year.

Highland Spring retained poll position as the UK’s leading natural mineral water producer with 255 million litres in 2005. With Highland Spring’s brand share growing to 7.4 per cent (from 6.9 per cent) the brand is now only a nudge away from Volvic with 7.5 per cent share and closer than ever before to the brand leader Evian. Highland Spring maintains third position in the UK’s bottled water league table. The “Top 5” comprise:

                           Market Growth          Brand share 2005      Brand share 2004

1. Evian                           +8.4%           10%                            9.7%
2. Volvic                          +7.3%           7.5%                          7.3%
3. Highland Spring        +12.2%          7.4%                          6.9%
4. Buxton                         +3.4%           3%                             3%
5. Vittel                            +5.7%           2.8%                          2.8%

The Perthshire company also boasts the leading brand of children’s bottled water with Highland Spring for Kids holding a massive 28 per cent market share according to MAT AC Nielsen (February 2006, latest data).

Sally Stanley marketing director of Highland Spring said: “This has been a spectacular year for our Highland Spring brand. As the only independent bottled water company among the top five brands we are competing with major multi-national brands yet delivering some of the best results in the market.

“For me 2005 was a pivotal year in the UK food and drink industry. There was almost a public moment when healthy eating and drinking became a force for good. Jamie Oliver’s exposé of the appalling dietary habits of UK schoolchildren can take most of the credit for the public shame felt at that time.

“Highland Spring is certainly benefiting from the public debate on healthier eating and drinking as more consumers opt for natural, untouched, authentic products which are seen by an increasing proportion of the population as more beneficial to long term health and wellbeing.

“And if our understanding of the market is right, bottled water will achieve more space in many supermarket and independents due to its continuing dynamic performance.”

Notes to Editors

1. Still water continues to be the most popular choice of water with 70 per cent of consumers choosing to drink it compared to 26 per cent choosing sparkling (TGI 2005).

2. Highland Spring is sourced from an organic catchment area beneath the Ochil Hills in Perthshire Scotland.

Issued by:

Alison Laing/Eve Robertson
3x1
T: 0141 221 0707/07879 621139 /E: alaing@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

Scotland’s answer to Tiger Woods, The Tiny Tiger, received a boost from Highland Spring who are sponsoring the five year old’s ‘Seven Wonders of the Golfing World’ event.

The tour, which kicks off on Saturday 18 March at St Andrews Bay Golf Resort & Spa at 12 noon, will see five year old Reece Campbell Murphy from Dunfermline take on some of Scotland’s top players at seven of Scotland’s finest golf courses in aid of Barnardo’s.

As the official natural mineral water supplier to the event, Highland Spring will ensure Reece and the professionals are properly hydrated.

Highland Spring is committed to getting more British kids to drink water and supporting a healthy active lifestyle for families. Suzanne Casey, senior marketing manager for Highland Spring said: “At only five years old Reece is setting a fantastic example to other children. His passion for golf shines through and his tremendous ability will inspire others to take up sport and will set a good example for other children.”

John Kerr resident PGA professional at St Andrews Bay will face Reece on 18 March. He said: “I am looking forward to playing Reece and I’m extremely happy to be involved with his fundraising activities. It’s phenomenal to see this wee boy play golf. The course is a tough test for any golfer never mind when you are just three foot tall. It’s amazing what he has achieved in such a small space of time and I for one will be watching out for him and offering my support for his future golfing endeavours. If I’m lucky enough he might give me a few tips.”

Reece will also play at Turnberry on March 19, Glasgow Gailes on March 20, Burnt Island on March 21, Gleneagles on March 22, Gullane on March 23 and St Andrews Old Course on March 24.

Notes to Editors:

Issued by:

Alison Laing/Eve Robertson
3x1
T: 0141 221 0707
E: alaing@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water, has launched a new limited edition spring pack of Highland Spring for Kids.
 
The 12 pack of 330ml bottles features fun spring characters and a name panel and is ideal for keeping children hydrated during the Easter break. Children are vulnerable to dehydration and at Easter can over-indulge in too many Easter eggs, sweets and fizzy drinks often leading to hyperactivity.  
 
The spring limited edition follows the success of last year’s Halloween pack which featured spooky water droplet characters and was popular as the best family refreshment as a healthy alternative to fizzy drinks.  
 
After pioneering the kids’ bottled water market in 2001 Highland Spring has been championing healthier drinking for kids and is committed to getting more kids to drink water. As the market leader with 27.4 per cent share (AC Nielsen), Highland Spring’s marketing director believes the kids sector is one of the biggest opportunities in the bottled water market. Sally Stanley, marketing director said: “Despite the category expanding by 40.7 per cent the kids’ sector is still very under-developed. If half the 5-11 year olds in the UK were to drink the same amount of water as adults currently do (37 litres per annum), the market would reach 100 million litres a year rather than the 11.7 million litres it is now.”
 
The best natural mineral water for families, Highland Spring is sourced from organic land beneath the Ochil Hills in Perthshire, guaranteeing a pure and natural drink.
 
For stockists call 01764 660500.

Issued by:

Alison Laing/Eve Robertson
3x1
T: 0141 221 0707/07879 621139
E: alaing@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com
 

Landscove Church of England Primary School from Newton Abbott in Devon and Letherbridge Primary School in Swindon were announced as joint winners of the Highland Spring School Dinner Award at the Soil Association School Food Awards at the BBC Good Food Show in Birmingham on 24 November.

Teachers and pupils from both schools met celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and pioneering 'dinner lady' and Soil Association school meals policy adviser, Jeanette Orrey. She presented the Awards, and the schools were treated to a Jamie Oliver cookery demonstration before receiving their awards.

Primary schools across the UK, from Newton Abbot to Inverness, submitted entries to the awards, sponsored by Highland Spring Natural Mineral Water.

The four winners of the Soil Association’s second School Food Awards for 2005 are:

Soil Association Food for Life School of the Year Award (£2,500)
Hurlford Primary School Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire

Joint winners - Highland Spring School Dinner Award (£1,250 plus a term's supply of Highland Spring for Kids)
Landscove Church of England Primary School, Newton Abbott, Devon
Lethbridge Primary School, Swindon

The Times Body & Soul Food Education Award (£1,250)
Thomas Fairchild Community School, London

Jamie Oliver said: "There are lots of winners in the Soil Association School Food Awards - the schools which serve healthy, tasty meals, the local and organic producers who provide the ingredients, and above all the kids who are going to grow up knowing what good food is and where it comes from.”

Jeanette Orrey commented: "The quality of entries was even better than last year’s, showing that the Soil Association's Food for Life project is really making a difference. It makes me proud to see so many schools doing such great work, but there's still a long way to go. I'd like to see all schools in Britain have meals like these in five years time."

Sally Stanley, marketing director of Highland Spring said: “We are delighted to be involved with the School Food Awards this year. Highland Spring is on a crusade to improve the drinking habits of British children and are proud supporters of several initiatives in schools across the UK promoting healthier eating and drinking.”

The winning schools also received a trophy donated by Bristol Blue Glass, and an electric pasta cooker worth £2500 donated by Hobart UK, manufacturers and suppliers of catering equipment to schools.

Since January 2003 the Soil Association has been working to raise the quality of school meals and has been providing schools with a practical blueprint. Its ground-breaking report, Food for Life, exposed a shameful under-investment in school dinners and played a key role in prompting Jamie Oliver to tackle the issue of school food through his high-profile TV series ‘Jamie’s School Dinners’.

Media Enquiries:

Eve Robertson / Alison Laing
3x1
t. 0141 221 0707
m. 07974 193 897
e. erobertson@3x1.com / alaing@3x1.com

Notes to Editors:

1. Jeanette Orrey was the original school dinner lady who inspired Jamie Oliver to make the programme Jamie’s School Dinners.
2. Highland Spring Natural Mineral Water for Kids is sourced from an organic catchment area beneath the Ochil Hills in Perthshire, Scotland.
3. Parents and teachers resource packs featuring educational resources, games, quizzes and water tips can be downloaded from http://www.highland-spring.com/

For more information about the Soil Association's Food For Life project go to http://www.soilassociation/foodforlife.org.

For Soil Association media enquiries contact the press office on 0117 914 2448, or email press@soilassociation.org

GMTV breakfast TV star Lorraine Kelly is running her third marathon in New York today (Sunday 6 November) with Team Highland Spring in aid of Breast Cancer Care.

There are 30 Scots runners in the 80 strong team including Rangers Football Club chief executive, Martin Bain and ITN Scotland correspondent Martin Geissler.

Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water, is donating a minimum of £150,000 to the charity as part of their Pure & Natural fundraising campaign. In addition each runner has pledged to raise a minimum of £2000.

Lorraine Kelly said: “This is my third marathon and most challenging and exciting yet! It’s fantastic running as part of Team Highland Spring. We can support each other and raise funds for such a worthwhile cause at the same time.”

Cherie Booth

The team also received a good luck message from, Cherie Booth QC the Patron of Breast Cancer Care. She said: “What you are undertaking is no easy task and the effort you have put in over the past year in training and fundraising is truly admirable.

“Breast Cancer Care is an extremely worthwhile cause and is growing from strength to strength thanks to the support of people like you. The money you are helping to raise will go towards providing vital information and support required by those suffering from breast cancer as well as their family and friends.”

Sally Stanley, marketing director and co-runner in the team said: “Everyone has worked

very hard to make it to the marathon and it’s been a great experience. We are on

target to raise over £200,000 for Breast Cancer Care which is a fantastic

achievement and everyone has been committed to make that happen.”

There are 41,000 women diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Breast Cancer Care is the UK’s leading provider of information, practical assistance and emotional support for anyone affected by breast cancer.

Issued by:

Debbie Donne/Eve Robertson, 3x1, T: 0141 221 0707// 07974 193897, E:ddonne@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com

Or in New York

Alison Laing/Julie McGarvey
T : 0044 7879 621139/ 0044 7768 125 394

Notes to Editors:

1. Photography of Lorraine Kelly is being wired to picture desks by Alan Richardson at approx 5pm UK time. For further photography please contact Eve Robertson or Debbie Donne at 3x1 on 0141 221 0707 or 07974 193897
2. Anyone with breast cancer or breast health conerns can get free, confidential support and information from the Breast Cancer Care helpline on 0808 800 6000 or by visiting www.breastcancercare.org.uk

Joe Beeston, chief executive of Highland Spring Limited is being awarded an OBE today (Tuesday 18 October) in recognition of his services to the soft drinks industry in Scotland.

Beeston (58) joined Highland Spring in 1992, turning the Perthshire based company around from a loss making business to its position today as the UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water with 11.4% share of the UK bottled water market, producing 244 million litres in 2004.

Sustained investment of over £50 million in new operational facilities at the bottling plant in Blackford, Perthshire, combined with Beeston’s unwavering belief in the potential of the Highland Spring brand have been key to the continued growth of the business, both in the UK and overseas, where Highland Spring is sold in more than 50 countries.

Commenting on the announcement of his OBE Joe Beeston said: “I am delighted to receive this honour. For me, it is an acknowledgment not only of my own efforts in developing one of Scotland’

Y JOINSs best known brands, but is as much a tribute to my team of 300 people at Highland Spring, who have helped my vision become reality.

“I must pay thanks to our owner, His Excellency, Mahdi al-Tajir, who has counselled me personally over the years and who has made a significant financial commitment to our development.”

“I would also like to acknowledge our many long term commercial partners, including British Airways, Connoisseurs Scotland and VisitScotland. Their continued support & enthusiasm has enabled us to build Highland Spring into the brand it is today.”

Beeston has a reputation for innovation and ranks his key achievements at Highland Spring, which he says he could only have delivered with the help of his “great team” as:

As the business has expanded, Highland Spring has become an increasingly important employer in the Perthshire area. Its success both in the UK and overseas as the UK’s leading exported brand of natural mineral water, demonstrates its expanding role as a contributor to the Scottish economy.

Notes to editor

1. Joe Beeston is married to Lynette and has a son Richard and a daughter Joanne from a previous marriage. His main personal interests are Formula 1 motor racing, Newcastle Football Club, travelling and business strategy. Although based in his home office in Lyme Regis, Joe travels weekly to Blackford and frequently to key export markets including Japan, the US, Dubai, Middle and Far East.
2. Joe Beeston’s career prior to Highland Spring was in the alcoholic beverages market, where he worked for AH Higginbottom, Grants of St James, Enotria Wines and URM, where he was managing director running a £400 million spirits distribution business.

Media Enquiries:

3x1 : Tel 0141 221 0707
Alison Laing, 07879 621139 or (h) 0141 649 9911
Julie McGarvey, 07768 125394 or (h) 0141 357 4888
E: jmcgarvey@3x1.com or alaing@3x1.com

With Halloween fast approaching, kids are in the party mood. Why not try the special Highland Spring for Kids Halloween pack to make it a party to remember! 
 
Kids love this spooky time of year as it gives them the perfect excuse to dress up, go trick or treating and indulge in sweets.   As healthy eating and drinking is a topic on every parent’s mind, Highland Spring has tips for a healthy and fun Halloween party. 
1.       Highland Spring for Kids is a great alternative to sweet, fizzy drinks. It’s 100% natural and comes in a handy sports bottles featuring spooky Halloween characters and a ‘hands off’ panel for kids to write their name making it perfect for parties.
 
2.       Get kids active by encouraging them to play games such as musical chairs or organise dance competitions and make sure they keep hydrated by drinking lots of water.
 
3.       Get them excited about their healthy Halloween party by letting them help you organise it … they can download special Halloween party invites from the Highland Spring website at www.highland-spring.com
 
4.       Hold a water quiz – visit www.highland-spring.com for get fun water wise facts.

As part of their crusade to improve the drinking habits of British kids, Highland Spring has developed a selection of nutritious and delicious recipes which are easy to make and certain to satisfy all kids.  They are available from the ‘For Kids’ section of the Highland Spring website.
 
Kids can get stuck into tasty treats such as spicy potato wedges, chicken fajitas and sticky sausage and sweetcorn kebabs, and they’ll love the colourful rainbow jellies and fresh fruit chocolate fondue, which can get messy so make sure you have lots of kitchen roll on hand.
 
Highland Spring for Kids special Halloween pack is available in a 12 pack of 330ml sports bottles throughout October, whether for lunchboxes, drinking at home and when on the go.  Sourced from organic land, parents can be assured of a guaranteed natural thirst quencher from a trusted source in Perthshire, Scotland.
 
Highland Spring for Kids is available across major retailers. For stockists call 01764 660500.

Issued by:

Alison Laing/Eve Robertson
3x1
T: 0141 221 0707
E: alaing@3x1.com/erobertson@3x1.com
 

For the third year running Highland Spring, Scotland’s leading producer of natural mineral water is teaming up with VisitScotland in a joint marketing campaign.

For the first time the ‘Pure Scotland’ advertising campaign will appear on a Highland Spring lorry transporting the product around the UK.

In addition bottles will feature an on-pack promotion across the Highland Spring range until September to win one of three five star breaks in Scotland. The first 10,000 applicants to enter the promotion will receive a specially created Scotland in Style booklet which gives the best places to stay and dine across Scotland.

Suzanne Casey, Highland Spring marketing manager said: “It’s great to be able to show Scotland as the home of Highland Spring and an ideal short break destination in this Pure Scotland advertising campaign.”

Over 42 per cent of customers believe Scotland produces the purest bottled water and 61 per cent see Highland Spring as the most ‘Scottish’ water brand. Sourced from a protected organic catchment area beneath the Ochil Hills, Perthshire Highland Spring gives a refreshing taste of Scotland.

Helen Campbell group marketing manager for VisitScotland, Scotland’s national tourism agency for Scotland said: “We are delighted to be working with Highland Spring to highlight Scotland as a refreshing, replenishing destination – the perfect place to escape a busy life.”

Issued by:

Alison Laing/Julie McGarvey
3x1
T:0141 221 0707
E: alaing@3x1.com

Jamie Oliver is backing major new school food awards that are being launched by the Soil Association, in association with Highland Spring and Body & Soul, The Times' health supplement, to highlight the importance of providing healthy food for school children.

Prizes include school kitchen equipment or material for food education worth £4,700 for the winning schools. There are three categories for schools to enter: The Highland Spring School Dinner Award for the best lunches (£1,100 plus a term's supply of water for pupils), The Body & Soul Food Education Award for the best educational approach to food issues (£1,100) and the Soil Association Food for Life School of the Year for the school with the best all-round approach (£2,500).

"This is a really great opportunity to support and nominate your school's dinner lady if you think she is doing a good job," says Jamie Oliver. "Instead of looking at how bad school food can be, this is a great way to celebrate what good things are going on in school kitchens around the country."

Since January 2003, the Soil Association has been campaigning to raise the quality of school meals and has been providing schools around the country with a practical blueprint for doing so. Its ground-breaking report, Food for Life, exposed a shameful underinvestment in school meals and played a key role in prompting Jamie Oliver to tackle the issue of school food through his high-profile TV series 'Jamie's School Dinners'.

The recent Government pledge of a £280 million increase in spending on school meals is a significant achievement for the campaign but there is still a long way to go: the Soil Association believes that the allocation of 50p per meal per child is still insufficient, and would like to see the figure rise to 65p.

Jeanette Orrey, pioneering school cook and policy adviser on school meals for the Soil Association, says: "We welcome the increased commitment from the Government but significant though this figure is, it is still not enough. If we seriously want to improve the health, well being and educational performance of our children, we need more financial investment and clear nutritional guidelines for schools."

The awards and prize fund are sponsored by natural mineral water company Highland Spring. "What children eat and drink at school affects not only their physical health but also their ability to concentrate and do well academically," says Highland Spring's Sally Stanley. "We support the Soil Association's campaign and these new awards because they are encouraging schools to replace junk food and sugary drinks with healthier options."

The Soil Association School Food Awards are open to all UK primary schools. If you would like to enter visit: www.soilassociation.org, or call the Soil Association: 0117 314 5000. The deadline for entries is 23 September, judging will take place in October and the winners will be announced in November.

The Awards judges will include Jeanette Orrey and respected nutritionist Jane Clarke, who has a weekly column in the Times health supplement Body & Soul.

The Food for Life action pack contains essential information for schools and parents wishing to improve the quality of school meals. It is available to download at www.soilassociation.org, or call the Soil Association: 0117 314 5000 to order.
Highland Spring natural mineral water comes from land certified organic by the Soil Association.

Soil Association media enquiries:

Simon Toseland
T: 0117 987 4589
E: stoseland@soilassociation.org

Highland Spring media enquiries:

Alison Laing / Eve Robertson / Julie McGarvey
3x1
T: 0141 221 0707
E: alaing@3x1.com / erobertson@3x1.com

Former Scotland rugby star, Kenny Logan, champion snooker player, Steven Hendry and World Bowls player, Paul Foster joined six members of staff from Highland Spring, the UK’s leading producer of natural mineral water, to help them prepare for running as part of ‘Team Highland Spring’ in the New York marathon on 6 November 2005.

All six staff are running the marathon as part of an 85 strong ‘Team Highland Spring’ in aid of Breast Cancer Care. The marathon is the flagship fundraising event of the company’s Pure & Natural campaign which will see them donate £150,000 to the charity.

The three sports stars gave the team vital tips and advice to help them with their training.

Joe Beeston, chief executive of Highland Spring said: “Our staff are firmly behind our partnership with Breast Cancer Care as it’s cause close