More than a third of Brits plan to avoid alcohol this Christmas

New Ocado data reveals soaring sales of no- and low-alcohol products ahead of Christmas, as the online grocer sees a 10% hike in the number of Brits planning to go alcohol-free this festive season.

Ocado has seen a major increase in year-on-year sales of no- and low-alcohol beer, cider, sparkling wine and spirits, and has increased its range of these products by 32% this year to cater to customer demand.

Consumer research by Ocado has revealed the extent of the shift towards no- and low-alcohol offerings. The number of Brits planning to avoid alcohol this Christmas has risen by 10% this year, a poll of more than 2,000 respondents has revealed, with more than a third saying they plan to go alcohol-free on Christmas day (38%, up from 28% in 2021).

Sales of alcohol-free cider are up by 24% according to the retailer, while non-alcoholic spirits have increased by 10%. Individual low and no alcohol brands are seeing historic sales growth this year, with some of the largest rises include Nozeco alcohol-free sparkling wine (up 83%), De Bortoli The Very Cautious One Shiraz (+51%), Brooklyn Special Effects alcohol-free beer (+79%) and CleanCo Rhubarb Non-Alcoholic Gin (+70%).

Gen Z and Millennials are driving this trend more than any other generations. More than half (56%) of 18-34 year olds are looking to avoid alcohol over the festive period, compared to a quarter of those aged 55 and over.

Gary Murray, trading director at Ocado Retail said: “Not drinking alcohol no longer means you can’t enjoy a glass of festive fizz or a Christmas cocktail. We’ve increased our range of no- and low-drinks by 32% this year, reflecting customer demand for innovative alcohol-free alternatives.”

“Our research suggests that more consumers are looking to reduce their alcohol consumption this festive season, so we’re continuing to grow our range of no- and low-alcohol beers, ciders, wines and spirits to ensure Ocado has something for everyone.”