Why Plastic Bottled Water Is Bad For Business

Plastic is becoming a liability—not just for the environment, but for your business. Foodservice operators are facing growing pressure from customers, partners, and ESG policies to clean up their sustainability practices. One of the easiest, most visible places to start? The water bottle.

Switching from plastic to aluminum bottles isn’t just a feel-good move—it’s a smart one. Here's why it pays off operationally, environmentally, and on the brand front.

Branding ROI: Sustainability That’s Easy to See

Today’s diners are paying attention. In fact, 74% of consumers say a brand’s environmental stance affects their purchasing decisions. Offering premium spring water in aluminum bottles shows guests you’re not just talking the sustainability talk—you’re walking it.

Aluminum packaging also gives a more elevated, intentional look and feel. While plastic blends in, aluminum stands out—making it easier for your brand to be remembered and your service to feel thoughtful.

Environmental Impact That Actually Makes a Difference

Here’s the reality: aluminum is one of the most sustainable materials out there. It’s infinitely recyclable, and about 75% of all aluminum ever produced is still in use. Plastic? Only about 5% of it gets recycled in the U.S.—the rest ends up in landfills, incinerators, or oceans.

If your foodservice operation is serious about reducing its footprint, aluminum offers a clear path forward with real, measurable impact.

Your Guests Already Want This

Gen Z and Millennial customers are driving a shift in expectations. They’re looking for sustainable options in everything—from the food they eat to the packaging it comes in. Ditching plastic signals that your business is paying attention to what matters now and in the future.

It’s not just a bottle; it’s a value statement.

 Cost vs. Value: The Bigger Picture

Yes, aluminum has a higher unit cost than plastic. But the ROI shows up in other places:

• Lower waste fees
  
  

• Stronger customer loyalty
  
  

• Greater alignment with corporate sustainability goals
  
  

• Easier compliance with procurement standards focused on eco-friendly vendors
  
  

In the long run, the switch pays for itself in brand equity and operational efficiency.

Choosing aluminum over plastic isn’t just a sustainability upgrade—it’s a business decision that supports your bottom line, enhances your brand, and keeps your operation aligned with what today’s guests actually care about.