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Here's a headline: Topo Chico’s iconic glass bottles are disappearing from shelves across the United States—and the shortage could last for months.
Coca-Cola, which bought the cult-favorite Mexican mineral water brand in 2017 for $200 million, says its flagship Topo Chico Mineral Water is “temporarily unavailable” nationwide due to upgrades at the water source and production facilities in Mexico. The issue traces back to Monterrey, where the mineral-rich wells that have supplied the brand since the late 1800s are currently undergoing improvements.
According to a letter sent to distributors and reviewed by CNN, production slowed over the past two months after the company identified “additional challenges in the source wells,” including quality concerns tied to the geology of the water source. In response, Coca-Cola paused production to make further investments to stabilize supply and maintain safety standards.
TL;DR: the water itself isn’t going anywhere, but the process of getting it into those signature glass bottles has hit a temporary snag.
The company says fans shouldn’t expect a quick comeback. While Coca-Cola has promised the product will return “later this year,” internal communications suggest it likely won’t be widely available in the U.S. again until the third quarter, which means the shortage could stretch well into summer.
Before you start hoarding the last dusty cases at your neighborhood bodega, there’s a small silver lining. The disruption only affects the classic Topo Chico Mineral Water. Other drinks under the brand’s umbrella, including flavored sparkling waters like Topo Chico Sabores and canned cocktail options, will remain on the shelves for now.
Premium bottled water has become a major growth area for Coca-Cola as consumers shift away from sugary sodas and the company recently reported a 4% jump in water sales in North America. Topo Chico, once a regional favorite from Mexico, has become a staple in American bars, restaurants and home fridges, especially among fans who swear by its aggressive carbonation and cult-status aesthetic.
For now, though, patience may be required. The brand says the production pause is about improving long-term stability and quality at the source, which could help prevent future disruptions, even if it means a few fewer clinking glass bottles in the short term.
If you spot a case in the wild, consider it the sparkling equivalent of a rare vintage—at least until the bubbles return later this year.