Zip Water has been recognised as one of Australia and New Zealand’s most innovative companies on the 2021 AFR Boss Most Innovative Companies – Manufacturing and Consumer Goods List.

Now in its ninth year, the prestigious annual list published by The Australian Financial Review and Boss Magazine, is based on a rigorous assessment process managed by Australia’s leading innovation consultancy, Inventium, in conjunction with a panel of industry expert judges, who evaluate product innovation based on the value of the problem solved, the quality and uniqueness of the solution, and the level of impact. 

Beginning its journey as a small family business in Western Sydney in 1947, Zip Water has progressively built its brand over more than 70 years. This journey has also seen several milestones including a series of world-first innovations, starting with the first on-wall instant boiling water system in 1975.

President and CEO of Zip Water International, John Doumani said Zip Water’s spot on the list was recognition of the company’s ongoing legacy of innovation.

“Featuring on the 2021 AFR Boss Most Innovative Companies – Manufacturing and Consumer Goods List is a testament to Zip Water’s continual investment in Australian-based innovation and design.

“Innovation touches all aspects of the business here at Zip Water – from people to process, and it’s great to receive recognition for that from the AFR and Inventium.”

The award recognises the recent launch of HydroTap Touch-Free Wave, the contactless solution to Zip Water’s flagship HydroTap developed in response to COVID.

“With 43 common touchpoints for employees throughout their average workday, we knew we needed to come up with a solution to improve hygiene in the workplace, while maintaining our focus on delivering water at its best,” said Doumani.

In a world first, Zip HydroTap Touch-Free Wave responds to sensors that detect hand motions to deliver instant boiling, chilled and sparkling water while enhancing design appeal.

Designed and manufactured locally in Condell Park, it was created in record time and has now been installed across leading organisations in both Australia and the UK, providing touch-free activation for boiling, chilled or sparkling water for thousands of employees.