L'exploitation des eaux minérales : données économiques

The exploitation of mineral waters: economic data

B.R.G.M., Département Utilisation et Protection de l'espace géologique, Centre thématique eaux minérales

Abstract

The exploitation of mineral waters, although reported in the media from time to time, represents an economic and social dimension that is sometimes poorly appreciated.

The paper covers two aspects: hydrotherapy treatment and packaged mineral waters.

• With regard to hydrotherapy treatment, some key data are provided: 104 spa resorts distributed over a large area of metropolitan France, often in mountainous areas; 637 000 persons treated in 1993; turnover of about 6.7 billion francs; 68 000 induced jobs (direct and indirect).

• Packaged mineral waters: it is fairly difficult to obtain overall consolidated data and the following are suggested: total turnover around 10 billion francs; about 10 000 direct jobs wilh 15 to 20 000 indirect jobs created.