No and low-alcohol beers are seeing unprecedented growth in the UK, with 86% of pubs now offering these options to cater to a wider range of drinkers, according to new figures.
Pubs are expected to sell a record 140 million pints of low and no-alcohol beer in 2024, an increase from 120 million pints sold in 2023. This represents a 12% share of total beer sales for the year, up 14% compared to 2022.
Among those pubs serving low and no-alcohol beverages, 8% now offer them on draught, a significant rise from just 2% in 2019. The growing availability of these alternatives is helping pubs become “even more inclusive and welcoming” to a broader audience, particularly during the festive season, said the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).
The BBPA is now urging the UK government to align its no and low-alcohol thresholds with those in other countries. In the UK, drinks labeled “alcohol-free” must contain no more than 0.05% alcohol by volume (ABV), while other nations allow up to 0.5% ABV for the same label.
According to the BBPA, harmonizing these thresholds would level the playing field for UK brewers and help expand the market. Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the BBPA, emphasized the growing demand for non-alcoholic options, saying, “Whether someone is choosing moderation, keeping pace with festive celebrations, or simply doesn’t drink alcohol, these sales show brewers and pubs are meeting a diverse range of needs.”
McClarkin also expressed the association’s readiness to collaborate with the government to ensure that UK alcohol-free product descriptors align with global standards. “This important step would allow the category to continue to flourish, benefiting both consumers and the pub industry,” she added.
Luke Boase, founder of the non-alcoholic beer brand Lucky Saint, echoed the call for clearer guidelines, saying that aligning product descriptors with international norms would help raise awareness and drive demand for alcohol-free drinks. “There is a huge opportunity for the Government to support this growing sector, benefiting both the health of the nation and the wider economy,” he said.
With demand for no and low-alcohol options set to continue rising, the BBPA and industry experts are hopeful that government action will further stimulate the sector, ensuring that the UK pub scene remains inclusive, diverse, and adaptable to changing consumer preferences.
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