Dry January boosts London interest in low and no-alcohol drinks

An Alcohol Change UK survey found 41% of Greater London residents planned to take part in Dry January, above the 32% national average, and local breweries and pubs report rising demand for low and no‑alcohol options.

Dry January is prompting more Londoners to choose low and no‑alcohol drinks, and businesses across the capital are responding to that demand. A survey by Alcohol Change UK found 41% of people in Greater London planned to take part this year, higher than the 32% national average. The trend extends beyond January: 23% said they wanted to drink less through 2026 and 42% reported increased concern about alcohol's long‑term health effects. Industry changes such as the 2023 alcohol duty reform and a growing range of products are also shaping the market. Key points: - Alcohol Change UK data shows 41% of people in Greater London planned to take part in Dry January, compared with 32% nationally; 23% wanted to drink less in 2026 and 42% reported greater concern about alcohol's long‑term health impact. - Seventy percent of London drinkers have tried to moderate their alcohol intake, compared with 52% across the UK. - Small Beer Brewery in Bermondsey focuses on lower‑alcohol beers of up to 2.8% ABV and sells online and from a Saturday taproom. - The Lucky Saint pub in Marylebone offers both alcoholic and alcohol‑free draught options to serve different customers. - The Club Soda Tasting Room in Covent Garden is due to close its Drury Lane site on 25 January, citing lease and building issues, and is reported to be seeking a new location. - Low and no‑alcohol beer accounts for about 2% of the beer market, though IWSR projects the sector could be worth £800m by 2028, and the 2023 duty reform reduced tax on lower‑strength products. Summary: Demand for low and no‑alcohol options in London appears to be rising and has prompted product and service adjustments from some breweries and pubs. One non‑alcohol bar plans to close its current site on 25 January while it looks for a new location. Wider market outcomes are projected but undetermined at this time.