US – A few weeks after Nestlé announced completion of sale of its North America Water business to One Rock Capital Partners, the business has begun operating under a new corporate name, BlueTriton Brands.

The business was sold to One Rock Capital Partners, in partnership with Metropoulos & Co for US$4.3 billion with the deal being finalised on 31 March.

Referring to Triton, the god of sea in Greek mythology, the new name is said to reflect the company’s role as a guardian of sustainable resources and provider of fresh water.

In addition, the rebrand allegedly signifies the company’s milestone as an independent business. A new corporate logo, website, and social channels are expected to launch in the coming months.

Metropoulos & Co founder, Dean Metropoulos, has become chairman and interim CEO of BlueTriton Brands.

“I am very excited to join with my One Rock partners and lead this company as we begin a new chapter together as BlueTriton, building on the rich heritage of our historic, iconic, and beloved brands,” he said.

BlueTriton consists of regional spring water and national purified water brands such as Poland Spring, Deer Park, Ozarka, Ice Mountain and Pure Life.

The new business entity will now oversee operations in 27 production facilities across North America, as well as the beverage delivery service ReadyRefresh.

Ontario lifts moratorium on permits

The new company now faces a new challenge in Canada following the lifting of the moratorium on water taking permits in the province.

In a news release, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks said it is strengthening protection of water resources with changes to the province’s water taking program.

These changes include provisions giving municipalities ability to have more input on allowing bottled water companies to withdraw new or increased amounts of groundwater in their communities.

These new laws are expected to affect Blue Triton which draws water from the province and has a plant in nearby Aberfoyle.

Back in the United States, Blue Triton is facing new opposition from a group known as Unbottle and Protect Chaffee County Waters which wants the company stopped from bottling water from its various sources, and selling it to the public in plastic bottles.

The group contends that commodifying water resources isn’t wise, given increasing drought conditions in Colorado, as well as global problems surrounding plastic pollution.

Liked this article? Subscribe to Food Business Africa News, our regular email newsletters with the latest news insights from Africa and the World’s food and agro industry. SUBSCRIBE HERE