The meteoric rise of no-and-low has been nothing short of a (Christmas!) miracle. In just a few years, we’ve seen consumer attitudes change towards drinking with the proportion of teetotal 16-24 years increased from 18% in 2005 to 29% in 2015.
Now, research by YouGov has shown that one in five (18%) people in the UK don't drink alcohol, including 15% of men and 21% of women.
In another study conducted by The Portman Group, they found that almost one in three (32%) UK drinkers now ‘semi-regularly’ consume low and no-alcohol products compared to one in four (25%) in 2020.
Furthermore, a fifth (20%) of those who have tried no-and-low alcohol say they are more likely to drink these products now compared to a year ago, almost double the number saying this in last year’s survey (11%).
The most popular reason for consumers who have tried no-and-low alcohol to drink these products continues to be ‘being able to drive home from social events’ (chosen by 33% of respondents).
With Christmas just around the corner, it’s safe to assume that many work parties, get-togethers and celebratory family events will include at least one designated driver which is why it’s the perfect time to consider investing in your no-and-low range for the festive period.
Award-winning brand, Everleaf, specialises in alcohol-free aperitifs, said: “We recommend incorporating no and low serves into the main menu, clearly and proudly labelled, and if you have a festive menu or overlay, don’t hide them away at the back – put them up-front with the rest of the cocktails.
“Make it easy for people to find and choose the drink they want and not have to feel left out or that they must compromise or miss out on the occasion.”
Big Drop Brewing Co. has perfected techniques to making alcohol-free craft beer without the need for artificial removal of alcohol. They said: “We have crafted an award-winning range of beers naturally brewed to 0.5% meaning that you are getting all the flavour and feel you may normally look for, without the usual effects.
“By offering different styles, ensuring staff are aware of the options available and making the no-and-low range visible, operators can cater for a diverse customer base and ensure inclusivity over the festive season.
Consumers are likely to spend longer in a venue that has put some thought into their no-and-low range.”
With more premium no-and-low options becoming available in the marketplace, it’s helped to drive both ‘premiumisation’ and ‘balanced choices’ macro trends which have been prominent in the on-trade reopened following the pandemic.
With demand for high-quality drinks greater than ever, we’ve rounded up a few festive no-and-low serves which are ideal for the festive trading period and perfectly complemented to go alongside some of the UK’s favourite Christmas dishes.
Starters
With crisp and refreshing flavours of bergamot and grapefruit, an Everleaf Palomi-No pairs perfectly with a smoked salmon starter.
Simply combine:
- 1-part Everleaf Marine
- 3-parts Grapefruit Soda
- Grapefruit Slice
- Sprig of Thyme
- Pinch of salt
Perfect with a platter of aperitivo of meats and cheese, the Everleaf Festive Spritz is an ideal alternative to an alcoholic spritz.
Simply combine:
- 1-part Everleaf Forest
- 3-parts Blood Orange Soda
- 1 Wedge of Orange
- Mint
For outlets serving canapes, a Spiced Citrus and Apple Cocktail from Atopia, makes for a special and refreshing spritz.
It includes:
- 35ml Spiced Citrus Atopia
- 50ml Mediterranean Tonic
- 50ml Appletiser
- 15ml Sugar Syrup
Simply add ingredients to a glass over cubed ice. Stir, top with fresh ice and garnish.
Mains
For those outlets looking play around with some alternative Christmas mains, Big Drop’s beers can be paired with many festive dishes. They recommend combining Uptime Craft Lager or Paradiso Citra IPA with a leftover turkey curry.
Their Pine Trail Pale Ale features rosy floral aromas with a light and limey citrus bite on the palate and a balanced but obvious bitterness to finish. This makes it deal with a festive burger with all the trimmings.
Or for those wanting to take it a step further, include a splash of the Galactic Milk Stout, featuring notes of honeycomb and chocolate, in a winter warming stew.
Dessert
Sea Change is passionate about two things: protecting the oceans and great tasting wine. Every bottle helps fund conservation projects across the globe and the minimal packaging reduces waste and environmental impact.
Their Sea Change Free is an alcohol-free sparkling wine; an eco-conscious alternative for those who want to avoid alcohol but don’t want to miss out on a celebratory glass of bubbles.
At only 27 calories per 100ml serve, Sea Change Free is a perfect partner to traditional Christmas desserts such as a fruity Christmas pudding or yule log.