Explore the rise of no and low alcohol trends like Dry January and zebra striping, appealing to those looking to cut back on drinking.
London: January is that time when many folks decide to take a break from drinking. About 9 million people in the UK try Dry January each year, but not everyone sticks with it. If you’re not ready to go completely dry, you might want to check out what Gen Z is doing.
This younger crowd is often called the “sober curious” generation. A study found that around a third of 18 to 24-year-olds don’t drink at all. Those who do tend to keep it light. Interestingly, a survey showed that 78% of Gen Z mix alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks when they go out, which is more than older adults.
About 25% of adults are getting into “zebra striping.” This means they switch between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks during a night out. It’s a smart way to enjoy a night while staying hydrated and possibly avoiding a nasty hangover the next day.
Zebra striping is gaining popularity. It’s similar to the old trick of having a glass of water with every drink, but now you can include soft drinks and low-alcohol options. Plus, with the rising costs of drinks, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a night out without going overboard.
“2024 is definitely the year of zebra striping,” says Sarah Holland from Waitrose. She notes that sales of no and low alcohol drinks have jumped 19% in the past year, with some non-alcoholic beers seeing a massive increase in sales.
Drinking plain water can get boring, so Waitrose suggests making your non-alcoholic drinks feel special. Use nice glasses, add a garnish, and some ice to make it feel like a treat.
Having some no or low alcohol options handy can help you feel better after the holiday season, keep your wallet happy, and maybe even lift your spirits during January.