Beverage industry leader announces retirement after almost three decades at helm

Beverage industry leader announces retirement after almost three decades at helm

International Bottled Water Association | NEWS RELEASE | September 9, 2025

Alexandria, VA -Joe Doss, president and CEO of the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA), announced that he will retire in 2026, after serving in this role since 1999.

In announcing his retirement to the IBWA Board of Directors and Executive Committee, Mr. Doss said, "IBWA has been more than just a place to work - it has been my passion, my purpose, and my family for more than a quarter-century."

"It has been a great privilege to help lead such a wonderful team of members, staff, and consultants through many years of transformation, challenge, and growth in the bottled water industry, and I'm incredibly proud of what we've accomplished during my tenure."

"I have loved every minute of my time at IBWA and will always remember the dedication, intelligence, and kindness of the many talented people who make up this association."

In responding to the announcement, IBWA's Chair Doug Hidding said, "As Joe approaches his retirement, our association reflects with gratitude on the remarkable leadership he has provided as president and CEO. His commitment to fairness and accuracy has been the hallmark of his service, guiding decisions that have strengthened our organization and advanced our mission."

"These qualities have earned him enduring respect across the membership and beyond," he said. "We extend our sincere appreciation for his 26 years of dedicated service and the lasting impact he has made."

Mr. Doss has served as IBWA president and CEO since 1999 and during this period the bottled water industry has experienced remarkable growth. At the turn of the century, bottled water was the fifth most popular beverage in the United States (by volume). In 2016, it became the No. 1 beverage, and has maintained that title for the past 10 consecutive years. In 1999, bottled water's annual consumption stood at 4.3 billion gallons-and it is projected to be 16.8 billion gallons in 2025. Similarly impressive is the industry's financial growth: retail sales climbed from $10.4 billion in 2000 (earliest year available) to $51.2 billion in 2025 (projected).

IBWA's work and responsibilities grew in tandem with the growth of the bottled water market, reinforcing the association's role as the leading voice for the industry

"As I prepare to step down, I am confident that the IBWA leadership team (members and staff) will carry the association successfully into its next chapter. Thank you for allowing me the honor and pleasure of serving as your president and CEO. It has been the highlight of my professional career."

Mr. Doss will remain at IBWA throughout the search for his successor and will stay on for a few months after the new president and CEO is selected to ensure a smooth transition.

IBWA has selected Korn Ferry to conduct a thorough search for a new president and CEO to build upon Mr. Doss's accomplishments and lead the organization into its next chapter. Potential candidates interested in learning more about this position should contact Lorraine Lavet, Senior Client Partner, National Association Practice Leader ([email protected]) or Chris Von Der Ahe, Senior Client Partner, Consumer Markets ([email protected]).

For more information about bottled water, visit IBWA's website: https://www.bottledwater.org.

### Media Contact: Jill Culora [email protected] 703.647.4609

The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) is the authoritative source of information about all types of bottled waters, including spring, mineral, purified, artesian, and sparkling. Founded in 1958, IBWA's membership includes U.S. and international bottlers, distributors, and suppliers. IBWA is committed to working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates bottled water as a packaged food product, to set comprehensive and stringent standards for safe, high-quality bottled water products. In addition to FDA regulations, IBWA member bottlers must adhere to the IBWA Bottled Water Code of Practice, which mandates additional standards and practices that in some cases are more stringent than federal and state regulations. A key feature of the IBWA Bottled Water Code of Practice is a mandatory annual plant inspection by an independent, third-party organization.

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