As the global brewing industry continues to evolve and transform, one constant in recent years is the ongoing growth in the field of no- and low-alcohol beers. A trend that looks to continue in 2025, too.
120 million pints of no and low-alcohol beers were consumed in the UK in 2023. That’s the headline figure released by the BBPA in the run-up to Christmas. A figure they also anticipated could swell by a significant 20 million more
by the end of this year.
In short, there is and remains a growth opportunity for those looking to enter to broaden their presence in this space.
The data shows that pubs’ sales of no and low alcohol in December 2023 amounted to 12% of all sales for that year alone, up from 11% in 2022.
With the industry serving up more options and sales thriving, the association explains, it means that the pub is even more inclusive and welcoming than ever before this festive season.
With no and low options growing in popularity, it is important that the Government takes meaningful steps over the coming months to address the disparity in UK descriptors compared to other markets.
The trade association is calling on the Government to align existing no and low thresholds with that of other nations to help drive sales and boost the economy.
Emma McClarkin, CEO of the BBPA, explains: “Whether someone is choosing moderation, keeping pace with many Christmas festivities, or just doesn’t drink alcohol, these sales show brewers and pubs are catering to all.
“With the popularity of no and low increasing, we stand ready to support the Government in taking the necessary steps to align our no and low alcohol descriptors with other markets.
“This important move would allow the category to continue to flourish, benefit the consumer, and allow the pub to continue being a home away from home.”
In its latest report, the BBPA also says that the industry has adapted to changing habits, highlighting that more than 425,000 bulk barrels of no and low alcoholic beer, equivalent to 120 million pints, sold in 2023. This is up 14% on 2022, when more than 370,000 bulk barrels were sold.
In the UK the existing threshold for ‘alcohol free’ is 0.05% ABV, whereas many other nations define alcohol free as 0.5% ABV. Aligning the thresholds will provide a level of fairness for UK brewers and will help to contribute towards the Government’s commitment to drive growth which will boost the UK economy.
Taking this step will raise awareness of the no and low options, support innovation, and provide even greater choice to consumers, the BBPA says.
Luke Boase, founder of leading non-alcoholic brewer Lucky Saint, adds: “There is an exciting opportunity for the Government to support consumers in understanding no and low drinks, and that will create a hugely positive impact on the health of the nation.
“Clear descriptors that align with other markets will help unlock availability, raise awareness and drive consumption of alcohol-free drinks across the country.
“We welcome the Government’s support for the no and low category to help realise its potential”
The no and low category continues to grow at a rapid rate year-on-year with 86% of pubs now serving a no and low option, and 8% serving it on draught, up from just 2% in 2019. This is compared to 77.8% and 1.7% respectively in 2019.
From a public health perspective there is clear and robust evidence that no and low alcohol drinks are effective in supporting those seeking to moderate or reduce their alcohol consumption.
And across the Atlantic, at the time of going to print, the Brewers Association has just released its 2024 Year in Beer. With the growing demand for mindful drinking, non-alcohol beer sales soared (scan dollars up 30%+ year-over-year from January through October) as brewers refined their techniques to deliver flavour-packed options, they add.
