The shortlist recognises achievements across 16 categories, from natural and functional waters to packaging design, technology and sustainability, ahead of the winners’ announcement in Barcelona, Spain, on 4 November.

The Global Water Drinks Awards 2026 shortlist has been announced, bringing together the brands and teams competing for recognition across the international packaged-water industry. This year’s 16 categories span natural still and sparkling waters, flavoured and functional launches, new concepts, packaging, technology and business initiatives, celebrating the work taking place across a diverse and evolving category.

Packaging/label design is the largest category represented in this year’s field, while the high number of flavoured water, functional water and premium water each showcase the consumer's desire for premium waters that not only benefit their health but also leave them satisfied.

The breadth of the shortlist also extends to sustainability initiatives, corporate responsibility and marketing campaigns, giving recognition to the developing products, brands and those finding new ways to bring water to consumers.

Congratulations to all those shortlisted. The final placements – Winner, Finalist and Commended – will be revealed at the Global Water Drinks Awards gala dinner during the 23rd Global Water Drinks Congress in Barcelona on 4 November 2026.

Global Water Drinks Awards 2026 Shortlist

Best Products of 2026

Best Innovations of 2026

Best Designs of 2026

Best Business Initiatives and Campaigns of 2026

2026 Judging Panel

The entries have been assessed by an international judging panel with extensive experience in water tasting, product evaluation and the wider bottled-water industry. Arthur von Wiesenberger has spent more than 45 years in the sector and has judged thousands of waters. Michael Cervin, author and former senior editor of Bottled Water Web, has served as both a judge and watermaster at the Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting for more than a decade.

The panel also draws on specialist knowledge of water’s sensory qualities, gastronomy and cultural significance. Ruriko Suzuki, a board member of the Japan Aqua Sommelier Association, specialises in water tasting and food pairing. Pat Eckert, managing director of Fine Liquids and founder of the Colors of Water Academy, curates mineral waters for gastronomy and collectors. Silvia Ștefănucă-Șerban is a certified water, wine and sake sommelier whose work as a beverage architect and experience creator spans water-focused education, hospitality and gastronomy.

Rafaela Sousa brings an industry journalism perspective, with her reporting for FoodBev Media and Refreshment covering developments across the global water drinks sector.

About FoodBev Awards

FoodBev Media awards schemes have been running for more than 20 years and are now recognised as the most credible and respected awards schemes to influence the international food and beverage industry.

For more information about our selection of awards programmes, please visit foodbevawards.com or email awards@foodbev.com.