Bars getting a boost from low alcohol beers

18 April 2016

MEDIA RELEASE

Bars getting a boost from low alcohol beers

Kiwis are developing a real thirst for low alcohol beer and that’s putting pressure on bars, cafés and restaurants to meet growing demand.

Hospitality New Zealand president Adam Cunningham said low alcohol beer was increasingly becoming the drink of choice for Kiwis wanting to enjoy social drinks but who were conscious of limiting alcohol intake.

“The trend in the past couple of years is that low alcohol beer is definitely becoming a more popular choice. That’s been driven by the lower drink-drive limits, but also the range of low alcohol beers on offer has improved.

“The hospitality environment is very social. Contrary to what some might say, Kiwis on the whole are responsible drinkers and they know their limits. They’re enjoying a social occasion over a few beers with their friends, families and colleagues. They’re not out to get drunk.

“The growing demand for low alcohol options is proof of that and the feedback we’re getting from members and patrons bears the trend out.”

Mr Cunningham said the range and styles of low alcohol beer now available had improved markedly in response to increased demand.

“But the low alcohol market is far from tapped out. Low alcohol beers that taste better and which come in a broader range will encourage more people to return to having social drinks in cafes, restaurants and bars.

“From the hospitality industry’s perspective that’s really important, because there’s been a lot of scaremongering over the lower drink-drive limit which has frightened a lot of people off unnecessarily.”

ENDS

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