Swiss-founded BE WTR is making significant strides in Southeast Asia by acquiring Porla’s operations in Singapore and Hong Kong, alongside forming a new licensing partnership in Thailand. This expansion, announced on 12 May 2026, aims to redefine the premium water market in the region’s hospitality and F&B sectors by promoting locally bottled water as a sustainable alternative to imported brands.
The acquisition doubles BE WTR’s presence in Singapore and integrates Porla’s existing operations, which have served high-end clients like Raffles Hotel Singapore and Four Seasons Hotel Singapore since 2015. This move brings over 300 corporate clients under BE WTR’s management, enhancing its market footprint and profitability in Singapore.
BE WTR’s CEO, Mike Hecker, emphasised the environmental and economic benefits of locally sourced water, stating, “Shipping a glass bottle across the globe only to use it once is no longer defensible environmentally or economically.” The company’s ultra-filtration technology ensures high-quality water by removing pollutants and microplastics whilst maintaining essential minerals.
Peter Ulrich, Director of Porla, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting BE WTR’s commitment to quality and sustainability. The collaboration in Thailand is expected to meet the growing demand for premium, sustainable water solutions in the region’s expanding hospitality market.
BE WTR’s expansion aligns with its mission to challenge the status quo of the bottled water industry, offering a fully circular system where bottles are reused over 300 times. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also provides cost efficiencies for F&B operators.
