One in three Brits planned for an alcohol-free Christmas according to a recent survey from drinks producer Schweppes. On top of this, the survey found that nearly four of every ten were aiming to welcome in the New Year with alcohol-free cocktails.
One in three under 40s now describe themselves as either 'sober curious', or as a moderate drinker, choosing to enjoy a mix of alcoholic, lower percent and non-alcoholic drinks. Then, one in four British adults under the age of 40 now consider themselves as tee-total, according to the nationwide study.
Drinking habits are also changing according to the data, with a new tribe of drinkers emerging – the 'Flextipples', Brits who are fluid in their drinking habits, easily mixing their tipple of choice between no, low and alcoholic beverages. The research shows that 60 percent of drinking age Gen Z and millennials are now mixing up their choices between enjoying alcohol in moderation and staying completely sober.
Sara Porter, Brand Manager for Schweppes Great Britain, said: "When it comes to enjoying a drink, attitudes and behaviours have shifted noticeably and we're seeing more and more people actively enjoying Schweppes both with and without alcohol.
"Given the breadth of options that consumers now have - they no longer need to feel like they're missing out on the 'theatre' of alcoholic serves if they instead choose a no or low-alcohol drink. As routines and habits evolve, 'Flextipples' are embracing the diversity of choice to suit their individual lifestyles."
The top motivations for young Brits when it comes to choosing a drink include flavour (71%), cost (58%), alcohol content (37%), brand (34%) and calorie content (33%). "Doing it for the 'gram", or social shareability, is a key motivation for one in six (17%).
As a nation, over half of Britons prefer to drink at home on the sofa, followed by at the dinner table at home (42%) and eating out at a restaurant (31%).
Almost a third like to have a drink at a friend's house, while 29% enjoy popping down to the pub. One in five enjoy a beverage while in the kitchen cooking.
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