Shandy Sees Surge in Popularity as Consumers Seek Lower-Alcohol Options

Shandy, a classic British beverage mixing beer with a citrus non-alcoholic drink, is experiencing a significant resurgence, with sales reportedly increasing across retailers. This revival is attributed to evolving consumer preferences, particularly among younger demographics, who are increasingly seeking lower-alcohol or zero-alcohol alternatives that do not compromise on taste.

Retailers have noted an uptick in shandy sales in recent months. Ocado, an online grocer, reported a 40% year-on-year increase in shandy sales in the year to date. The drink, first popularized in the 19th century and traditionally made with beer and lemonade, had fallen out of fashion by the 1990s, partly due to the rise of adult soft drinks and a perception of being old-fashioned.

Jane Peyton, founder of the School of Booze, noted that while shandy was once seen as a drink for older generations, a combination of changing drinking habits and a trend for retro products has contributed to its comeback. The low and zero alcohol beer category, which shandy falls into, has seen substantial growth, with the UK market experiencing an 870% volume increase since 2013. Approximately 200 million low and zero alcohol beers were consumed last year, marking a record for the category.

The appeal of shandy is also being boosted by its association with current trends. The launch of a limited edition shandy range by Tom Holland's non-alcoholic beer brand, Bero, is seen as evidence of the drink's renewed