Mock the Toast | 02.29.24

Pernod plans to go big on non-alc | Kvass joins the fermented craze | Is nightlife changing?

everything zero to low-alcohol

Mixed Things

Industry

The trend towards "damp" or "dry" lifestyles is growing, driven by health priorities and an increase in sophisticated non-alc beverages, despite higher production costs. (axios.com)

Pernod Ricard targets non-alc sector growth with a diverse portfolio expansion, including Beefeater 0.0%, and plans for global expansion. (thespiritsbusiness.com)

The U.S. non-alc drink market, fueled by health trends, is booming, offering tasteful alternatives for the sober-curious and expected to exceed $90 billion in 2024. (courtstreetjournal.com)

Saudi Arabia is experiencing a social shift with the rise of booze-free bars and the opening of its first liquor store for diplomats, signaling a potential easing of the longstanding alcohol ban. (economist.com)

Carl Radke rejoins Loverboy, a brand of non-alc sparkling teas, leveraging his personal sobriety journey to innovate within the brand, while also pursuing his growing film production career. (yahoo.com)

Keurig Dr Pepper, Diageo, and Boston Beer are highlighted as key stocks to buy, benefiting from the non-alc beer boom, with innovations and investments driving their market presence. (investorplace.com)

The Teetotalist Social Club, catering to sober patrons, will open a permanent nonalcoholic bar in Sacramento in summer 2024, transitioning from pop-up to permanent. (sacbee.com

Despite only 1% consumption in the UK, aggressive marketing by brands like Heineken for alcohol-free options during Dry January amplifies the low/no alcohol category, aiming to normalize and expand its presence in culture and pubs. (thedrum.com)

Kvass, a traditional low-ABV, fermented beverage made from bread, is gaining popularity among craft brewers, offering a sustainable and probiotic-rich alternative in the growing market for functional and low-alc drinks.(insidehook.com)

In the UK, nightlife is changing with club closures and a shift towards non-alc entertainment, challenging traditional night-out culture amidst rising sobriety and economic pressures. (news.sky.com)

Prima Pavé non-alcoholic wines are now available across 42 U.S. states, 8 countries, and in prestigious venues like Park Hyatt, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Eataly and Eleven Madison Park, in addition to a recent partnership with Williams-Sonoma. (wineindustryadvisor.com)

Topo Chico, owned by Coca-Cola, launches non-alcoholic mixers including Ginger Beer, Tonic Water, and Club Soda, aiming to become a $1 billion brand. (fooddive.com)

Dominion City Brewing's accidental foray into non-alc seltzers became a lucrative venture, now contributing 20% to its revenue. (shopify.com)

DELLI adds seasn LIGHT & DARK. (linkedin.com)

Olipop is hiring two friends as Senior Soda Consultants for $40,000 to promote their prebiotic soda in four cities, covering expenses, requiring content creation skills.. (travelandleisure.com)

The Zero Proof Co-Founder explores real-time category building, focusing on distribution and in-store placement of non-alc products. (linkedin.com)

The CBD market's growth is stalled by regulatory complexities, affecting distribution and causing major companies and startups to retreat from their CBD-infused product ventures. (nytimes.com)

Tesco launches new accelerator programme for startups; inaugural cohort includes Lucky Saint. (tescoplc.com)

Can Sacred Energy bring Yaupon, a native North American caffeinated plant, into the mainstream market? (bevnet.com)

Bravus’ Co-Founder talks his non-alc journey and insights. (dryatlas.com)

👏 The New Bar, a non-alc bottleshop, opens second retail location. (linkedin.com)

Podcast: CEO of Cann on the business of THC-infused beverages. (podcasters.spotify.com)

Launches + Collabs + More

Kit NA Brewing Inc. launches Get Set Wheat. (finance.yahoo.com)

Field Day Brewing Company launches Day Dreamer, a locally brewed hemp-derived THC beverage in three strengths, expanding its brand into the non-alcoholic market in Iowa. (press-citizen.com)

UFC fighter Chito Vera joins MAISON BLOOM, promoting wellness through infused beverages.(wane.com)

Reply to this email with your launches, collabs, expansions and/or news.

Health

Alcoholism poses global health risks, with authorities advising no safe consumption level, highlighting the need for reevaluating habits, exploring healthier alternatives, and seeking professional help. (psychologytoday.com)

Non-alc beverages may offer a healthier alternative but their impact on those with alcohol addiction is unclear. (scopeblog.stanford.edu)

Thai government seeks to mandate graphic warnings on alcohol products. (aseannow.com)

Culture

Contrarian Take: Humorously criticizing sober bars and non-alc trends, fearing they may undermine traditional bar culture and social interactions. (niagarathisweek.com)

Despite differing views on alcohol, the author and her non-drinking husband maintain a harmonious relationship through communication, respect, and shared experiences.(forbes.com)

Coffee shops can boost profits by adding a no-alcohol section, attracting sober customers and enriching the beverage experience. (therecoverycatblog.com)

Ranking the new wave of New Zealand's non-alc beers, highlighting emerging trends and tastes.(thespinoff.co.nz

Non-Non-Alc Splashes

Asahi CEO targets acquisitions to boost Super Dry in the US, including buying Octopi Brewing for expansion. (bloomberg.com)

The weirdest ingredients used in beer brewing, including yeast cultured from beard hair. (vinepair.com)

Data Shot 🥃

Non-Alc Opportunities

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