Sales of No and Low alcohol beers in the UK are on track for a record-breaking summer. New data from the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) reveals a significant rise in consumer demand. During June and July 2024, sales are expected to reach the equivalent of 33 million pints, marking a 20% increase over the same months in 2023.
This surge follows a steady upward trend in recent years, with sales rising from 20 million pints in 2022 to 23 million in 2023. The category now represents the largest growth area in the UK beer market, seeing a 35% increase in just two years.
The growth is attributed to the sector’s responsiveness to changing consumer preferences, with more No and Low alcohol options available than ever before. These developments not only align with public health objectives but also reflect brewers’ efforts to cater to a broader range of preferences, as more people opt for moderate drinking choices.
However, challenges remain. The BBPA points out that the current UK definition of “alcohol-free” beer, which requires it to have no more than 0.05% ABV, is restrictive compared to other countries where the threshold is typically 0.5% ABV. The BBPA advocates for aligning the UK’s definition with international standards, which could encourage further investment in No and Low alcohol options and support the sector’s continued growth.
The success of the No and Low alcohol category, which has seen a remarkable 750% growth since 2013, highlights its growing importance within the beer industry.