CHAPTER 1
When Frogs and Rosbifs Unite.
In a surprising twist of fate, a British invasion took place, albeit with just one Brit, and it happened some 60 years before the iconic British Invasion of music. This event, however, turned out to be a significant moment in history. Sir John Harmsworth, the brother of successful and immensely wealthy English newspaper magnates, found himself in the company of Dr. Perrier while studying French near Les Bouillens. Little did they know that this encounter would change the course of the beverage industry.
During their brief interaction, Harmsworth made a swift decision that would have a lasting impact. He purchased the source of the water and, as a tribute to Dr. Perrier, renamed it PERRIER®. With a vision in mind, Harmsworth began bottling the water in distinctive green bottles. This marked the birth of PERRIER®, a drink that would soon become ubiquitous.
Sir John Harmsworth
English founder of the modern Source Perrier.
With its unique branding and refreshing taste, PERRIER® quickly gained popularity. The drink was destined to be enjoyed "here, there, and everywhere". Its distinct green bottles became a symbol of sophistication and style. PERRIER® became synonymous with elegance and luxury, capturing the attention of consumers around the world.
The success of PERRIER® can be attributed to its exceptional quality and the vision of Sir John Harmsworth. By recognizing the potential of the water source and rebranding it, he transformed a simple beverage into a global phenomenon. The distinctive green bottles not only protected the water but also became an iconic symbol of the brand.
PERRIER® transcended borders and became a staple in households, restaurants, and cafes worldwide. Its effervescent nature and refreshing taste made it a popular choice for those seeking a unique and invigorating beverage. PERRIER® became a symbol of sophistication and a testament to the art of French craftsmanship.
Over the years, PERRIER® continued to innovate and expand its product line. It introduced various flavors, such as lemon, lime, and strawberry, catering to different taste preferences. The brand also ventured into the sparkling water market, offering a bubbly alternative to still water.
The success of PERRIER® can be attributed not only to its exceptional product but also to its commitment to sustainability. The brand has made significant efforts to reduce its environmental impact, implementing eco-friendly practices throughout its production process. PERRIER® is dedicated to preserving the natural resources that make its water so unique.
Today, PERRIER® remains a beloved and iconic brand, synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and refreshment. Its distinctive green bottles continue to catch the eye and evoke a sense of luxury. PERRIER® has become a staple in the lives of many, offering a refreshing and invigorating experience with every sip.
In conclusion, the British invasion led by Sir John Harmsworth may have been a small-scale event, but its impact on the beverage industry was monumental. Through his encounter with Dr. Perrier and the subsequent rebranding of the water source, Harmsworth created PERRIER®, a brand that would captivate the world with its distinctive green bottles and refreshing taste. PERRIER® has become a symbol of sophistication and elegance, enjoyed by people "here, there, and everywhere".
CHAPTER 2
PERRIER® Calling
Keep calm, and PERRIER® on – the water from the south of France captivated Britain. This was a crowning achievement as PERRIER® was a symbol of Franco-British unity with its added value Royal Warrant, By Appointment to His Majesty the King – talk about the royal treatment.
Visual of label
Label showing the Royal Warrant.
Royal court
Here we see the Prince of Wells, Edward VII, and Sir Winston Churchill enjoying a bottle of Perrier.
CHAPTER 3
The Bubbles of the Elite
The competitors just didn’t have the sparkle they were looking for – but PERRIER® did. In 1908 at the Franco-British Exhibition, PERRIER® lived up to its elite image by winning the Grand Prix des Eaux Minérales Vente de l'Année, after selling 5 million bottles in England and its colonies. Yet the so French bubbles were still better known in London, Delhi, and Singapore and were not yet champs...Élysée in Paris – a paradoxical situation that would soon change.
Indian Clubs
In 1906 Sir John Harmsworth was in a car accident that left him paralyzed. Legend has it that during his rehabilitation, he was given weights, indian clubs, which inspired the pear shape of the PERRIER® bottle.
CHAPTER 4
A Water Like No Other
It was time to break the French market like a tasty baguette – full force, but with a sophisticated touch. To do so, the Vergèze bottling plant went all out by reorganizing itself and doubling in size, all while promoting Perrier’s classy image as the champagne of table waters. The sparkling water soon became synonymous with elegance, joy, and celebration in France. All these characteristics were one of a kind for natural spring water, and ultimately what led the little green bottle to break through its homeland’s tough crust.