Low-and-no takes off in APAC bars
Consumers in Asia-Pacific (APAC) are increasingly seeking low- and no-alcohol options in the on-trade, according to new research from CGA by NIQ.
The research found that 30% of APAC consumers are drinking less alcohol than they were a year ago. This figure increased for countries including Australia (34%), New Zealand (38%) and the Philippines (42%).
Conversely, only 15% said they were drinking more.
Of those who are drinking less, 41% said they were trying to be healthier. This was higher in China (52%) and Hong Kong (45%).
Other motivations included pressure on spending, with 25% saying they are drinking less to save money.
Most are not abstaining completely. Nearly a third (31%) of those who are moderating consumption said they drink alcohol only on special occasions. This is higher in South Korea (38%) and Japan (41%).
Meanwhile, 22% of APAC consumers said they continue to drink the same categories when they go out, but are making fewer purchases per visit.
In terms of alternatives, 32% said they have tried a low-alcohol or alcohol-free drink in an on-trade venue. The most popular category was low-and-no beer, ahead of wine and spirits.
China was particularly receptive to these options, with 48% of respondents saying they have tried one.
James Phillips, CGA by NIQ’s head of on-premise for APAC, said: “APAC consumers are no longer drinking out of habit – they’re drinking with purpose. The shift toward mindful consumption is not a passing trend, but a cultural reset that’s redefining how, when and why people drink.
“The key question – is this the new normal in the on-premise? If so, it presents big challenges for suppliers, manufacturers and operators, including the need to cater for moderating guests without alienating core consumers.
“Brands that can gain a deep understanding of this complex recalibration and adapt nimbly will be the ones that stay relevant in the months and years ahead.”
According to data from IWSR, spirits volumes in APAC fell by 2% in 2024.
Related news
Waitrose low-and-no 'spirits' sales up 85%
