- Almost one third (32%) of adults who drink alcohol in Scotland also now semi-regularly drink alcohol alternatives
- New annual YouGov research commissioned by the Portman Group reveals more than one fifth (22% ) drink less alcohol after having tried low and no alcohol alternatives
New YouGov consumer research reveals that almost one third (32%) of adults who drink alcohol in Scotland now semi-regularly* drink alcohol alternatives, up from 29% the year before. The research was commissioned by the Portman Group, the alcohol social responsibility body and marketing regulator.
More than one fifth (22%) of Scottish drinkers say their alcohol consumption has reduced since first trying low and no drinks, demonstrating their role in encouraging moderate and responsible drinking. The top reasons cited for drinking low and no alcohol are being able to drive home safely from social events and avoiding short-term health impacts (i.e. hangovers).
With New Year’s Resolutions round the corner, those that plan to reduce alcohol consumption in 2023 said they will drink fewer alcoholic drinks at home (38%), have more alcohol-free days (28%) and stop drinking at home altogether to drink responsibly and moderately (22%).
Matt Lambert, CEO, the Portman Group – the alcohol social responsibility body and marketing regulator said: “The variety and availability of low and no alcoholic drinks has never been stronger, reflecting a huge increase in consumer popularity.
“The vast majority of consumers already drink responsibly within the Chief Medical Officer guidelines, but it is particularly pleasing to see evidence that low and no options are playing a role in encouraging people to moderate their drinking.”
Notes to editors
- *Use of the term ‘semi-regular drinkers’ refers to those who either ‘often’ or ‘sometimes’ drink low and no alcohol products.
- All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,381 adults, 206 of whom in Scotland. Fieldwork was undertaken between 28th – 29th November 2022. A similar survey was carried out in December 2021. The surveys were carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+).