Natural waters of Viti Limited: Pioneering a new industry in the Fiji Islands
Jim McMaster
Pacific Institute of Management and Development, University of the South Pacific, Fiji Islands
Jan Nowak
Pacific Institute of Management and Development, University of the South Pacific, Fiji Islands
PP: 37
Abstract
This case analysis traces the establishment and subsequent operation of natural Waters of Viti Limited, the first company in Fiji extracting, bottling and marketing, both domestically and internationally, Artesian water coming from a virgin ecosystem found on Fiji's main island Viti Levu.
The authors first discuss the product concept, the company and its expansion, and the legal framework and the necessary infrastructure for a new industry pioneered by Natural Waters of Viti. These are followed by an analysis of the US market, from which the company derives more than 90% of its revenues, and the marketing strategy employed in that market. The subsequent sections deal with export earnings, expected expansion into new markets, and the company's relations with the local community.
The case concludes by summarizing major achievements by the company and major challenges it faces now.
Keywords
bottled water
References
Asian Development Bank (2000) Republic of the Fiji Islands 1999 Economic Report, Pacific Studies Series, Asian Development Bank, Manila.
Bottled Water Web (2002) Price Scan, viewed on 13 Mar, http://www.bottledwaterweb.com.
Christy N (2001) Age of enlightenment, Beverage Aisle, August.
International Bottled Water Association (2002) Viewed 13 Mar, www.bottledwater.org.
Lincolne I (General Manager of Natural Waters of Viti Limited) (2002) Interview with McMaster & Nowak, 11 March, Yaqara.
Natural Waters of Viti Limited (2002) Viewed on 12 Mar, www.fijiwater.com.
Philips B (2001) No end in sight, Beverage Aisle, August.
Reserve Bank of Fiji (2001) Natural Waters of Viti Limited, Briefing Paper, August.
The Perrier Group of America (2002) Viewed on 13 Mar, www.perriergroup.com.
Yavala P (2000) Fiji water travels, Fiji Times Weekend Business, The Fiji Times, 18 November.
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