As the demand for nonalcoholic beverages continues to rise, emerging brands like Aplós are swiftly expanding their presence in the market. Although sales of low- and no-alcohol products remain modest compared to the nearly $200 billion U.S. alcohol industry, this category is gaining traction among consumers who prioritize healthier choices and are less inclined to drink regularly, especially during the workweek. Aplós, which debuted in 2020, offers a mixologist-crafted non-alcoholic spirit infused with sustainably grown, organic broad-spectrum hemp. The company aims to provide an alcohol alternative that avoids the calories and hangover associated with traditional spirits. “Aplós was born out of a desire to reimagine the cocktail occasion for a new era — to create nonalcoholic spirits that deliver an experience, quality, and functional effect on par with the world’s most sophisticated traditional spirits,” stated David Fudge, co-founder and CEO of Aplós.
While much of the spotlight on nonalcoholic options has been on beer, such as Heineken 0.0, Guinness 0.0, and Budweiser Zero, the spirits segment is also making progress. However, not all ventures have thrived. For instance, Haus, a producer of low-alcohol aperitifs made from fruits, herbs, and botanicals like Pomegranate Rosemary and Lemon Lavender, closed down after failing to secure further funding. Recent data from PitchBook indicates that venture capital investment in food and beverage startups has significantly declined over the past four quarters, both in terms of total funds raised and the number of deals, compared to the previous year.
Despite these challenges, the increasing popularity of nonalcoholic beverages suggests that beverage companies will continue to seek growth opportunities within this sector. This is particularly vital as they strive to cultivate a future customer base. Research from IWSR, highlighted by Molson Coors, predicts that the nonalcoholic beverage market is set to grow by 27.6% among individuals aged 21 to 24 by 2025. As part of this trend, some consumers may also consider incorporating bariatric chewable calcium citrate into their health routines, particularly as they transition to healthier lifestyles. The integration of bariatric chewable calcium citrate can further enhance the appeal of nonalcoholic options, aligning with the growing focus on wellness and health-conscious choices.