Conscious Consumption: The Rise of No-Lo Drinks

The No-Lo drinks industry has certainly carved a place for itself within the spirit sector, as it makes waves with its disruptive approach to drinking. Consumers are adopting new habits, embracing the No-Lo alternatives to their favourite alcoholic drinks.

The alcohol landscape has evolved in the past 10 years, as we’ve experienced key shifts in consumer attitudes. Health and moderation have climbed up the consumer priority list, particularly for the younger generation. Gen Z, who are now entering the legal drinking age are significantly impacting the market, prioritising authenticity, sustainability, and health.

No-Lo drinks are poised for further growth, reflecting this broader shift to wellbeing and conscious consumption. Brands are quickly changing course to introduce No-Lo alternatives to the much-loved classics. 

Examining The No-Lo Drinks Market

Now establishing itself as a fully-fledged segment, the No-Lo drinks sector is rapidly expanding. 

According to IWSR, No-Lo sales almost doubled in 2023 and this trajectory is expected to continue. The pace of growth of the no/low-alcohol category is expected to surpass that of the last 4 years, with forecast volume CAGR of +7%, 2022-26, compared to +5%, 2018-22.

The market data indicates that while consumers have not eliminated alcohol entirely, they are increasingly reserving it for special occasions. Yet when they opt for No-Lo alternatives, their choices continue to reflect their prioritisation of taste and experience. 

Spirit sector titans have also taken heed, broadening their offerings to include No-Lo alternatives of their renowned spirit brands. Building on from its humble beginnings where the industry primarily focused on botanical spirits like gin, it now encompasses an array of no or low-alcohol alternatives for rums, vodkas, and even whisky.

Crafting an Iconic Image for No-Lo Drinks

The appeal of expertly crafted glass packaging is more prevalent than ever. The impact of packaging for No-Lo drinks is pivotal in setting yourself apart and establishing your brand on the shelves. It can be utilised to deliver an authentic experience, especially to No-Lo drinkers, who still value the sophistication and socialisation associated with drinking alcohol.

As the No-Lo drinks market continues to expand, packaging can enable you to encapsulate and convey your brand story which is a key motivator in the choice to buy for consumers. 

Packaging for No-Lo brands has traditionally followed the standard set by its alcoholic counterparts. As both markets feel the pressure of increasing saturation, the drive for differentiation in packaging should be echoed by those No-Lo alternatives. Whether that be decorating your bottle with botanicals infused in your No-Lo creation or spray coating your bottle in your brand hues to be instantly recognisable, there are multiple decoration opportunities for brands to build diversification in their packaging. 

Three Spirit Takes the Lead

One brand dominating the No-Lo scene is Three Spirit. They produce quality, natural, herbal elixirs that are designed with purpose and give consumers control over your desired mood. Excelling in botanical alchemy, they are a No-Lo specialist, working to deliver a carefully crafted taste to non-drinkers.

Three Spirit embodies mystery and intrigue in their packaging, designed to be sustainable, and authentic, and convey their story. Passionate about botanical alchemy, Three Spirit reflect this in their packaging which is designed to emulate an olden-day medicine bottle. The distinctive bottle design signifies mystery, draws in curious consumers and communicates their story of forging science with drinks, creating a tailored experience for consumers. 

Distinctive decoration spreads over three different SKUs. Using UV organic inks, each bottle has arrows conveying the desired experience. For example, the ‘Livener’ with an upward arrow design, portrays its mood-lifting effect, and ‘Nightcap’ includes a downward arrow for its calming effect. Bespoke design and innovative branding create a unique and intriguing experience for consumers.

Three Spirit’s commitment to sustainability shines through in their premium packaging composed of primarily recycled glass, designed to be more lightweight and efficient. 

Here To Support Your SKUs

Whether you’re an emerging No-Lo brand looking to establish yourself on the shelves, or a heritage brand branching out to release a new No-Lo SKU, we are the experts at hand. 

At Verallia, we specialise in crafting bespoke glass packaging to tell your brand’s story, embodying the authenticity and transparency No-Lo consumers look for. Our offering ranges from entirely bespoke moulds to off-the-shelf packaging that can be tailored to your dynamic brand. Contact us today, to explore how we can bring your story to life.