And the new fully integrated drinks firm would have a much better distribution network, particularly in Asia.

ECONOMIST: Guinness and GrandMet

However another lobbyist, Richard Tren of the Sustainable Development Network, says that properly-regulated privatisation is better than centralised government water distribution.

BBC: Politics clouds clean water debate

At current exchange rates the increase was 13.3 percent for the company that also produces watch components and electronics, has its own distribution network, its own retail stores and owns and manages museums for some of its better-known watch brands.

FORBES: Record Sales at Swatch Group Despite Rising Swiss Franc