Recent statistics reveal a significant shift in the drinking habits of UK adults, with a large majority opting for moderation and embracing non-alcoholic alternatives. According to Kam Media’s 2023 report, a staggering 3 in 4 UK adults are now moderating their alcoholic intake to some extent, indicating a widespread cultural trend towards healthier choices.
Today, on World Cocktail Day, we had the pleasure of a lunch and learn with Spencer Matthews, the founder of non-alcoholic spirits company, CleanCo, who we have previously featured for their fantastic, botanical range of products and conscious perspective on consumption.
From the brand’s research, it is clear that the younger demographic, in particular, is leading the charge towards moderation and exploring non-alcoholic options. YouGov’s 2023 data highlights that 44% of 18-24-year-olds are regular or occasional consumers of non-alcoholic alternatives, signaling a departure from the traditional drinking culture among younger generations.
This shift in consumer behavior is also reflected in the market trends, as evidenced by the robust sales figures for non-alcoholic products in the UK. Nielsen & CGA’s 2023 data reveals that non-alcoholic products amassed sales exceeding £350 million in the same year, underlining the growing demand for alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages.
CleanCo is now the world’s leading non-alcoholic spirits brand, and has even announced its approval as the first brand within the category to support and appear within this year’s NPA (National Pharmacy Association) Your Health, Your Pharmacy campaign. This marks the first time for a brand within the non-alcoholic space to be included, with CleanCo names as a suggested alternative for individuals looking to reduce of moderate their alcohol intake.
One of the most striking developments is the remarkable growth in the sales of non-alcoholic spirits. Nielsen’s analysis spanning from 2020 to 2023 indicates an astounding +220% surge in non-alcoholic spirit sales, underscoring a significant paradigm shift in consumer preferences towards healthier and more mindful drinking habits.
Furthermore, the increasing adoption of non-alcoholic spirits is evident from the rising number of first-time consumers. In 2023 alone, Kam Media reports that a staggering 8.7 million UK adults tried non-alcoholic spirits for the first time, highlighting a growing curiosity and openness towards exploring new alternatives in the beverage landscape.
In summary, the data paints a clear picture of a nation moving towards moderation and embracing non-alcoholic options, driven by changing attitudes towards health and wellness. As the demand for non-alcoholic alternatives continues to soar, it reflects not only a shift in consumer preferences but also a broader cultural transformation towards mindful and responsible consumption habits.
You can learn more about CleanCo via their website, and read our previous coverage here.