Harry Mealia & Kaushalraj Thayumanaswamy

Saor Water founder Ryan Ormonde has a clear vision: to create a distinctive platform that connects brands without overwhelming consumers with ads. As Ireland’s first free beverage company, Saor offers a medium of advertising through their cans in an innovative and sustainable approach to marketing. The idea is that these free drinks are distributed to any location or event that the collaborating brand wishes to advertise at. Founders believe that their product enables brands to connect with consumers through meaningful and authentic connections. This refreshing approach, opposed to typically intrusive advertising, has created a niche market for the company. With sustainability at the heart of the firm, Saor Water is an exciting newcomer to the beverage market. 

The Team

Founder Ryan Ormonde has always had an entrepreneurial mindset, displaying his skills flipping iPhones during his school days. It is clear to see where his head is at considering he claims to “spend more time on LinkedIn than Snapchat”. These atypical traits show his high levels of motivation. This extends to the rest of the team. Jonathan Hoffman, Luke Carroll and recent addition Anthony Walsh all make up a motivated group looking to connect brands with their audience. Individual specialities in marketing, administration and outreach behind the scenes help Saor Water operate effectively. Their motivation coupled with an innovative, sustainable approach to advertising has led to a start-up with serious potential and a bright future. 

Where They Are Now

One year has passed since Saor Water’s inception, and the startup has come a long way in its mission of advertisement-fuelled hydration. Ryan started by designing the company’s website and creating marketing materials, including posters and social media content by himself. He also ensured the establishment of a supply chain for their water cans. The company collaborated with a water can supplier in the UK, who is responsible for filling and packaging the cans before shipping them to Ireland. The process was a steep learning curve for Ryan, who encountered challenges during the first shipment’s importation into Ireland. However, his swift action ensured the timely release of the shipment, enabling distribution at all planned events. 

Today, Saor Water has begun its distribution efforts, with its current target being universities including TUD, TCD, and UCD, and other student-based events. Their partnership with “Roots,” a healthy food restaurant, marks their first collaboration. They have also struck a partnership with Mercedes and will soon be distributing Mercedes-themed water cans at car dealerships, expanding their reach to new markets.

In today’s digital age, the average person is exposed to more than 6000 ads every day. Ryan says that he is consistently working on enhancing the design of their water cans as he recognises that it is essential in order to provide a positive customer experience and make Saor Water a refreshing and appealing choice for consumers.

Plans for the Future

Saor Water’s primary focus remains on students – targeting universities and student-centric events – and plans to expand more in this space. The company is also expanding more into the dealership sector. But Saor Water’s expansion vision does not stop at the Irish shores. The company envisions a future where its sustainable water solution reaches even broader audiences. They have identified the UK as a promising market, offering a multitude of events and businesses to collaborate. An expansion into the UK promises not only new customers but also a streamlined supply chain, enhancing efficiency and growth.