The UK spirits industry has always been a dynamic landscape, constantly evolving to meet changing consumer preferences, regulatory demands, and technological advancements. The world of spirits in the UK continues to undergo transformations, driven by a mix of cultural shifts, sustainability initiatives, and innovation in taste experiences. Let’s dive into the trends shaping the UK spirits industry.
No and low
As drinking habits change, we see a huge shift within the spirits industry to no and low. There are a few reasons why people may choose to moderate their alcohol intake, for example, health and fitness, to improve sleep or even to save money. Moderation is a key word here as consumers aren’t cutting alcohol completely. Therefore, we are seeing new and old brands fulfil consumers’ need for ‘no and low’ alcohol options. And these options are innovating by the day!
Ready to drink
We’ve seen a rise in RTD cocktails and canned mixers on sale in retail spaces, but RTD is also becoming increasingly popular in hospitality. Why might a bar or restaurant choose to serve pre-mixed cocktails?
- Quality: using premium ingredients makes sure these drinks are made to a high standard.
- Taste: brands have put in immense effort to ensure pre-made drinks taste like the real deal, and arguably, in some cases, it would be hard for a cocktail connoisseur to taste the difference.
- Saves time: in hospitality time equals money and pre-made drinks save bar tender’s time.
- Eco-friendly: most RTD cocktails are packaged in glass or cans (such as MOTH Drinks, Served, and White Claw – who are exhibiting at Casual Dining 2024) which are infinitely recyclable.
Sustainability
In the UK spirits scene, sustainability is shaking up the game like never before! Wildjac Distillery has launched a paper spirits range, cutting down on plastic waste. And then there’s Funkin Cocktails, making waves as the UK’s first B Corp cocktail company – they’re all about mixing up drinks with a side of social and environmental responsibility. Cocktails at Home are doing their bit too, proudly flaunting their Carbon Neutral Certified status. Yep, every bit of CO2 they churn out, whether directly or indirectly, gets balanced out by some serious tree-planting action.
Trade shows
According to The Spirit Business, trade shows are also a big trend for the spirits industry. Trade shows have seen an increase in popularity since opening again in 2022 after the pandemic. In fact, Casual Dining and its sister show, lunch!, saw a record breaking 11% increase in visitors in 2023. Buyers are interested in learning more about the brands they’re investing in. Therefore, trade shows are the perfect environment to taste, try and discover quality suppliers under one roof.
As we navigate through 2024, the UK spirits industry is still a dynamic and vibrant ecosystem, driven by a blend of tradition and innovation. From sustainability initiatives to no and low, the industry is evolving to meet the changing tastes and preferences of consumers. As enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike raise their glasses to new discoveries and experiences, one thing is certain: the spirit of innovation continues to thrive in the UK. Cheers to the exciting journey ahead!
Casual Dining 2024
If you are considering exhibiting your spirits brand to the restaurant, pub and bar industry, Casual Dining is the perfect place to do so.
Join brands like Pimentae Drinks, Disaronno, Piston Gin, Funkin Cocktails, MOTH Drinks, White Claw, Cocktails at Home, Served, Wildjac and Shanky’s Whip at Casual Dining 2024.
Don’t miss 10+ sessions across two days in the Pub & Bar Keynotes Theatre at Casual Dining. Headline keynotes to be announced soon. Registration to visit Casual Dining and its sister show (lunch!) is now open, click HERE to register.
Contact our sales team today:
Charlotte Stace
Sales Executive
E: [email protected]
Tel: 01273 077314
Stephen Herring
Event Manager
E: [email protected]
Tel: 01273 645167
