Ocado has increased its no and low alcohol portfolio by 32% this year as it looks to meet growing demand in the run up to Christmas.

This comes as research of 2,000 consumers by the online-only supermarket shows the number of Brits planning to have an alcohol-free Christmas has risen by 10% this year and more than a third expect to avoid an alcoholic drink on the big day.

It found that 56% of 18 to 34 year olds are likely to forgo alcohol over the festive period, while 25% of Brits aged 55 and over expect a dry Christmas this year.

For 60%, health reasons was the main factor for swapping out alcohol for other alternatives this year, while 51% wanted to cut costs and 41% wanted to enjoy the festivities sober.

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This comes as 54% of 18 to 34 year olds have bought no or low alcohol alternatives from a supermarket this year and Ocado has seen major increases in its year on year sales of no and low alcohol beer, cider, sparkling wine and spirits.

The grocery retailer reported sales of Nozeco alcohol-free sparkling wine up 83% and Brooklyn Special Effects alcohol-free beer sales increasing by 79%.

Sales of alcohol-free cider has also seen a 24% rise, alongside non-alcohol spirits which saw sales increase by 10% during 2022.

“Not drinking alcohol no longer means you can’t enjoy a glass of festive fizz or a Christmas cocktail. We’ve increased our range of no/low drinks by 32% this year, reflecting customer demand for innovative alcohol-free alternatives,” Ocado Retail trading director, Gay Murray said.

“Our research suggests that more consumers are looking to reduce their alcohol consumption this festive season, so we’re continuing to grow our range of no/low alcohol beers, ciders, wines and spirits to ensure Ocado has something for everyone.”