Sainsbury’s to open low and no alcohol pop-up pub

Supermarket chain Sainsbury’s plans to launch a pop-up low-alcohol and alcohol-free pub in London this month, called The Clean Vic.

Shining a light on the low and no alcohol drinks category, Sainsbury’s will take over The Old Crown Public House on New Oxford Street for two days.

Serving drinks with a maximum alcohol level of 0.5% ABV, the drinks menu will feature Celtic Soul, a no-alcohol whisky alternative; a selection of alcohol-free beers including Lucky Saint; and low-alcohol wines and mocktails.

According to reports, Sainsbury’s has recorded a 31.8% increase in sales of low and no alcohol products over the past 12 weeks.

Buyer at Sainsbury’s, Anne Cooper, said: “We are seeing a really exciting spike in the no and low alcohol category, which has been growing since 2001.

“With an increasing number of products now available, those who want to hold off on alcoholic beverages don’t need to miss out on the experience of enjoying a beer with friends or even a mocktail made with a delicious non-alcoholic distillate.”

The Clean Vic will also hold a Q&A session with Sober Girl Society’s Millie Gooch alongside a mocktail mixology masterclass and beer tastings.

Open on the 24 and 25 July, entry to the pop-up is priced at £5 including two free drinks and bar snacks.