Water is a commodity that I think has turned into a luxury during the past few years. Life here in South Bend does not allow too much for this observation. But, when I return to Chicago and shop at Whole Foods this hits me in the head every time. Growing up in Chicago I drank water from the tap. Still living in South Bend I drink tap water, however it is filtered through a Brita since SB water is horrible.
But, when I am in the water section in Whole Foods its like a UN meeting. I have my choice of water from America, Poland, Switzerland, Japan, and Russia to name a few. Why do we need so much water from different places. After all its all clean and taste's the same. The nutritional value is the same. So why? Who really pays $4 for a single serving of Fiji water. I mean I know who does, but who really knows why?
Water companies have done a great job in making us believe we need better water. Yes, I look trendy and rich if I have a bottle of water. But I really don't need it. I actually have a few plastic reusable containers that I take with me. Not only am I saving money, but I am helping the environment. I get the difference with other commodities since a nutritional value is at stake like salt and sugar.
To make the cache of water increase markets are savvy in placing them in hands of celebrities and making the bottles themselves attractive. A brand by the name of VOSS is a great example. One night I was a bit inebriated and needed water at a club. Naturally I asked for a cup, but that was not available. But, for $6 I could get a bottle of VOSS. Yes, for that minute of consumption it felt good and I felt trendy. So my thought was if that is what people want to feel like then bottled water is being purchased as an accessory and not a need to live.
Hats off to water companies for making this a luxury good.
