From Sober-Curious to Profitable: The Rise of Mocktails in Restaurants
1. A Market on the Mend—And Booming The global mocktail market is surging ahead. While RTD (ready-to-drink) mocktails were valued at $8.26 billion in 2023, forecasts predict they’ll more than double to $13.6 billion by 2032, with an annual growth rate near 9.6% Another report projects the broader industry reaching $126 billion by 2031, expanding at ~8% CAGR . Clearly, mocktails are scaling fast—from wellness trends to revenue powerhouses. 2. What’s Fueling the Movement? Mindful Moderation & Health Focus With Gen Z and Millennials leading the charge toward mindful drinking and sobriety, zero-proof options are becoming mainstream. Nearly half of Gen Z drinkers incorporating mocktails or non-alcoholic beverages in their nights out is fueling what’s known as the “zebra striping” trend—alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks Declining Alcohol Sales = Tailwinds for Mocktails As alcohol sales plateau or dip—spurred by health concerns, inflation, and new habits—innovative establishments are boosting non-alcoholic drink offerings. Restaurants like Four Seasons in Philadelphia saw mocktail sales double within months of introducing dedicated menus Creative Craftsmanship with Zero-Proof Spirits The rise of premium, alcohol-free spirits (e.g., Seedlip, Lyre’s, Ritual) has empowered bartenders to replicate classic cocktails—just without the alcohol. Kombucha-based concoctions and fermented mixers have also surged → blending wellness and flavor 3. Why Restaurants Should Care ✅ Expand Your Customer Base Mocktails draw in health-minded guests, designated drivers, drivers-to-be, expectant mothers, and abstainers. A survey shows 50% of consumers express interest in non-alcoholic cocktails—with 48% of Gen Z preferring mocktails to alcoholic drinks. ✅ Higher Margins & Incremental Sales Non-alcoholic menus have proven lucrative. At upscale venues, mocktails range from 30–40% of beverage revenue. Better yet, lower ingredient costs and premium positioning can boost per-glass profits.