Low Alcohol Beverages Market Size

Market Size Snapshot

Note – Market size depicts the revenue generated over the financial year

The world market for low-alcohol beverages is projected to reach $1,314 billion by 2032. The CAGR (compound annual growth rate) for this market is 4.7% for the forecast period from 2024 to 2032. The growing demand for healthier lifestyles and the rising awareness of the negative health effects of excessive alcohol consumption are driving the market for low-alcohol beverages. In addition, the trend towards moderation in the consumption of alcohol is promoting the demand for beverages that combine pleasure with health consciousness. In the beverage industry, technological advances such as improved fermentation and new flavoring methods are also contributing to the growth of the market. The leading players, such as Heineken, AB InBev, and Diageo, are investing in product development and strategic collaborations to enhance their low-alcohol beverage offerings. The launch of Heineken 0.0 and the acquisition of AB InBev’s craft beer brands are two examples of such strategic initiatives. These developments will continue to shape the future of the market.

Regional Market Size

Regional Deep Dive

The low-alcohol beverage market is growing in various regions, mainly because of changing consumer tastes for healthier lifestyles and moderation in the consumption of alcohol. In North America the trend is towards craft and premium products, while in Europe the range of products is more diverse and influenced by cultural traditions. In the Asia-Pacific region, demand for low-alcohol beverages is growing, especially among young people. The Middle East and Africa are characterized by particular regulatory conditions that influence the market. Latin America is slowly adopting low-alcohol beverages, influenced by the global trends and local tastes. This is a promising trend that is expected to continue in all regions.

Europe

• The European market is seeing a notable trend towards low-alcohol spirits, with brands like Seedlip leading the way in non-alcoholic distilled beverages, appealing to consumers seeking sophisticated alternatives.
• Countries like Sweden and Denmark have implemented government initiatives promoting low-alcohol consumption, which are expected to further normalize these products in social settings.

Asia Pacific

• In Japan, the introduction of low-alcohol beverages has been supported by major companies like Asahi and Kirin, who are innovating with flavors and packaging to attract younger consumers.
• The growing trend of 'mindful drinking' among millennials in Australia is driving demand for low-alcohol wines and beers, with local producers responding by expanding their product lines.

Latin America

• Brazil is witnessing a growing trend of low-alcohol cocktails, with local bars and restaurants experimenting with innovative recipes to cater to health-conscious consumers.
• The increasing influence of global beverage trends is prompting local producers in Argentina and Chile to explore low-alcohol wine options, aligning with international market demands.

North America

• The rise of health-conscious consumers has led to an increase in the availability of low-alcohol craft beers and wines, with companies like Lagunitas Brewing Company and Heineken USA launching new products to cater to this demand.
• Regulatory changes in several states are allowing for more flexible distribution of low-alcohol beverages, which is expected to enhance market accessibility and drive sales growth.

Middle East And Africa

• In the UAE, the government has relaxed regulations on the sale of low-alcohol beverages, leading to increased availability in retail and hospitality sectors, which is expected to boost market growth.
• Cultural shifts towards more moderate drinking habits are being observed, particularly among younger populations, which is encouraging local brands to develop low-alcohol options.

Did You Know?

“In the UK, low-alcohol beer sales have surged by over 30% in the past year, reflecting a significant shift in consumer preferences towards healthier drinking options.” — The British Beer and Pub Association

Segmental Market Size

The Low-Alcohol Beverages category is a vital part of the overall beverage market, which is growing rapidly in line with the trend towards a healthier lifestyle and moderation in alcohol consumption. The demand for low-alcohol beverages is driven by a growing concern for health and well-being, especially among millennials and Generation Z consumers, who are looking for low-calorie and low-alcohol alternatives. In addition, governments in some regions, such as the United Kingdom and Australia, are promoting responsible drinking, which also increases the demand for low-alcohol beverages. Among the leading brands in this category are Heineken and AB InBev, with products such as Heineken 0.0 and Budweiser Zero. The main application of low-alcohol beverages is in social settings, such as bars and restaurants, where consumers choose low-alcohol alternatives when they gather with friends. The rise in health awareness and the drive for sustainability are also driving growth, as consumers increasingly prefer natural ingredients and sustainable packaging. Technology such as fermentation improvements and flavor enhancing methods is also enabling the development of more appealing low-alcohol beverages.

Future Outlook

Low alcohol drinks market to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% between 2024 and 2032. This is largely due to the growing demand for healthy lifestyle choices, as more and more people seek to moderate their alcohol consumption without sacrificing their social lives. Low alcohol drinks are set to account for around 15% of the total beverage market by 2032, with rising awareness of the health risks of excessive alcohol consumption and the growing trend towards mindful drinking. Moreover, technological developments and policy drivers are set to shape the low alcohol drinks market. High-quality, low alcohol drinks are being developed through innovations in brewing and fermentation processes. In addition, government initiatives to promote responsible drinking and public health are likely to support the low alcohol drinks market. Meanwhile, new trends such as the development of craft low alcohol beers and the introduction of low alcohol spirits will play a key role in attracting a broader audience, particularly among millennials and generation Z, who place a high priority on health and quality.