UK retailer Tesco has reported a strong demand for no-and-low alcohol beer, wine and spirits during ‘Dry January.’
Since the start of January, the British retailer said demand for no-and-low alcohol drinks increased by nearly 10%, compared with the same period last year, it added.
Sales of no-and-low spirits rose nearly 40%, no-and-low wine lifted 20%, and no-and-low beer and cider were up by 15%.
'Significant Growth'
“More and more customers want to be able to enjoy the social aspect of having a drink without the alcohol, but still want a quality wine, beer or spirit drinking experience," said Ben Cole, category planning manager for beer, wines and spirits at Tesco.
“With the increasing quality of no-and-low alcohol products, we are seeing a significant growth in this area with this January recording our highest ever customer demand and following hard on the heels of a record-breaking Christmas.”
Christmas Period
Tesco noted that high no-and-low drinks sales was not just confined to January.
The increasing popularity in no-and-low drinks was especially pronounced over the four week Christmas period, a time better known for its indulgence rather than abstinence, which saw demand up by nearly 15%.
'Really Exciting'
“The growth in the sale of no-and-low alcohol drinks across the country is really exciting," said Karen Tyrell, CEO of the charity Drinkaware.
“Our research shows UK drinkers are choosing them more and more to help moderate their drinking and stay within the low-risk drinking guidelines of 14 units a week."
In December of last year, Tesco said it expects ‘record demand’ for no- and low-alcohol beer, wines and spirits over Christmas, after witnessing sustained and strong demand for the category throughout the year.
