No, Low & Mid-Strength Drinks Sector Urged to Act as UK Government Prepares Key Policy Changes

The UK's no, low and mid-strength drinks sector is approaching a pivotal moment, with significant Government decisions expected this year that will shape the future of the category. In response, No, Low and Mid-Strength drinks advocates Club Soda have launched what is believed to be the first benchmarking survey of its kind, aimed at gathering the data needed to inform policymaking.

The survey will assess the size of the market, its current contribution to the UK economy, and its future growth potential, in response to questions from DEFRA as it considers how best to support the sector.

Industry leaders are warning that without clear and coordinated input from producers, retailers and stakeholders, the category risks being defined without those closest to it being involved.

"This is one of those moments where the sector either shows up, or gets shaped without us," said Laura Willoughby MBE, Co-founder of Club Soda. "The decisions being made this year will have long-term consequences for how alcohol-free and mid-strength drinks are produced, marketed and sold in the UK."

As part of this work, Club Soda is engaging directly with Government departments, working alongside trade bodies, developing a sector-wide manifesto outlining key policy priorities, and creating tools to support industry engagement with policymakers.

UK based Low, No and Mid-Strength drink producers are now being asked to contribute to the benchmarking survey to ensure the sector is accurately represented in these discussions.

No, Low and Mid-Strength drink brands from the UK are encouraged to complete the benchmarking survey by Friday 24th April and can find out more and respond here.

Laura Willoughby added: "This is a rare opportunity to ensure the sector is properly understood at a policy level. The more voices we have, the stronger that case becomes."

Notes:

Club Soda has been advocating for no, low and mid-strength drinks since 2015 and is supported by brands and partners through a brand membership.

The Government signalled its intent to change descriptors, look at age restrictions and support the growth of the sector in the 10-year health plan for England.

For more information:

Laura Willoughby MBE, Co-founder, Club Soda — laura@joinclubsoda.co.uk — 07968 708703

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