Record Sales Expected as Pubs Offer More Inclusive Drinking Options

The demand for no and low-alcohol beers in UK pubs has surged, with a record 140 million pints expected to be sold this year, up from 120 million in 2023. This increase marks a 12% rise in sales, with the category now accounting for 14% more sales than it did in 2022.

A significant 86% of pubs across the UK are now serving no or low-alcohol beer to cater to a broader range of customers, ensuring that drinking establishments remain inclusive. Notably, 8% of these pubs are offering no and low-alcohol beer on draught, a dramatic increase from just 2% in 2019.

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) credits the growing variety of drink options as a key factor in making pubs more welcoming, especially as the festive season approaches. The organisation also advocates for a revision of the UK’s alcohol-free beer regulations, which currently set the threshold for “alcohol-free” at 0.05% ABV, lower than the 0.5% ABV standard in many other countries.

Emma McClarkin, the chief executive of the BBPA, expressed support for aligning the UK’s definitions with international standards, a move that could further stimulate growth in the no and low-alcohol beer market and enhance the sector’s contribution to the economy.

McClarkin explained: “These growing sales demonstrate that pubs and brewers are catering to all types of drinkers, whether for moderation, festive enjoyment, or those who don’t drink alcohol at all. Aligning the no and low-alcohol descriptors with other countries would ensure fairness for UK brewers and allow this category to flourish further.”

Luke Boase, founder of the non-alcoholic brewery Lucky Saint, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the opportunity for clearer guidelines that could help increase awareness and drive consumption of alcohol-free beverages, benefitting both consumers and the nation’s health.