A survey by the British Beer and Pub Association suggests that a record one in five drinkers abstained from alcohol for Dry January. According to Alcohol Change UK, those using its app to track a month of sobriety saved an average of £118. However, pubs have reported a decrease in drink sales, while the prices of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol drinks are increasing faster than their alcoholic counterparts.
Jasmine Hoole, a first-time participant in Dry January, reported that the experience boosted her savings and energy levels. She is among the estimated 8.5 million people who planned to abstain from drinking in January and one of over 100,000 who used the Try Dry app.
The hospitality industry has been impacted by the increase in sobriety, with drink sales at UK bars down by seven per cent in January. The Night Time Industries Association has noticed a slight decline in pub and bar attendance due to the cost of living.
Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, noted that alcohol consumption in the UK has fallen by 15% over the last 15 years. She also highlighted the growth of the non-alcoholic and low-alcohol drinks market, with 85% of pubs now serving alcohol-free beers.
However, the prices of these alternatives are rising. Research suggests a 13.3% surge in the prices of non-alcoholic alternatives since the beginning of last year, compared to a 10.4% increase for full-strength beer and cider.
One of the UK’s first alcohol-free bars, Torstig, hosted a pop-up in London in January. Despite their cocktails being priced up to £9 per drink, co-founder Emmi Edwards argues that customers are paying for the quality of ingredients and the lack of a hangover.
For first-time Dry January participant Jasmine Hoole, the benefits extended beyond financial savings, contributing to her mental health and confidence. She plans to continue her sobriety beyond January.
