8 Category Trends with other beverage segments such as cannabis-infused drinks also gaining traction .

“ Alcohol-free moments like Dry January continue to increase in popularity year to year , with a quarter of young adults taking on the challenge in 2024 — a 9 % increase from the 16 % who participated in 2023 ,” says Close . “ It ’ s clear that the sober curious lifestyle is gaining momentum every year . This rising trend is here to stay , and brands need to adapt to consumer interest .”

CANNABIS BEVERAGES

The rise of the better-for-you beverage movement has resulted in a nice boost in cannabis-infused drinks . As consumers look for alcohol alternatives , especially during Dry January , some have turned to THC to get a more relaxed buzz without the alcohol .

According to Grand View Research , the global cannabis beverage market was valued at $ 1.16 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 19.2 % from 2024 to 2030 . The North American market dominates this space due to widespread legalization , particularly in the U . S . and Canada .

Infused beverages are also an easy way for new consumers to try cannabis in a format that they are familiar with , unlike smoking . “ The availability of hemp-derived drinks in beverage formats is very familiar to someone who may not be as familiar with cannabis or new to these products ,” says hemp manufacturer and supplier Samson Extracts ' CEO , Kyle Neathery .

Due to cannabis beverages ’ increasing popularity , not only are they showing up on liquor store shelves in legal states , but they are also making appearances at certain on-premise locations .

The dispensary Planet 13 in Las Vegas recently opened their Dazed Lounge , which allows guests to consume cannabis beverages on-site in a speakeasy-style space accessible through a hidden door . The lounge offers cannabis sodas and sparkling waters ($ 10 ), as well as alcohol-free cocktails that contain THC ($ 15− $ 35 ).

There ’ s also Wake N Bakery , which

Airport wine bar concept Vino Volo in January began carrying four alcohol-free drinks from Atlanta-based non-alcoholic bottle shop The Zero Co .

No- and low-alcohol remains red hot , among the top trends in 2025 . Here ’ s a look at how a specific operator is tapping into this trend .

North American airport concessionaire Paradies Lagardère has partnered with Atlanta ’ s non-alcoholic bottle shop The Zero Co . to offer four alcoholfree selections at its wine bar concept Vino Volo starting in January . The two companies aim to help travelers discover flavorful zero-proof drinks for more mindful drinking all year .

“ The Zero Co . offerings provide an excellent opportunity for travelers to participate in the Dry January challenge after a busy and indulgent holiday season ,” says Larissa Dubose , Paradies Lagardère ’ s senior director for Vino Volo . The wine bar chain wants to make it easy for travelers to select high-quality options that best suit their lifestyles , she says , “ whether a limited reprieve from alcohol or an ongoing preference .”

Vino Volo , which operates 42 locations inside airports across the U . S . and Canada , carries a wide selection of wines from around the world , as well as craft beer , spirits , a food program and retail markets in certain airports . The Zero Co ., Atlanta ' s first nonalcoholic bottle shop , offers a curated selection of zero-proof beverages , from nonalcoholic wines and spirits to craft mocktails and unique mixers .

The following non-alcoholic beverages , with tasting notes from The Zero Co . general manager Rori Robinson , will be available year-round at all U . S . Vino Volo locations :

• Oddbird Blanc de Blanc – a dry sparkling dealcoholized wine made from chardonnay featuring a zesty acidity and aromatic green apple and lime notes . It pairs well with hard cheeses , tuna poke , toasted nuts and pastry .

• ISH SpritzISH – a non-alcoholic Aperol spritz with bittersweet orange , woodsy herbs and a touch of vanilla . It pairs well with meat and cheese boards , fried foods , seafood and shellfish .

• Giesen Red Blend – a light-bodied wine from New Zealand meant to emulate merlot without the alcohol . The aroma of blackberry and herbs mix with red berries , plum , beetsand toasted oak on the palate . It pairs well with steak , pork , and Brussels sprouts

• Giesen Pinot Grigio – an alcohol-removed pinot grigio from New Zealand that features delicate floral notes , Honeycrisp apple and lychee on the nose . At the same time , the palate offers minerality , pear , lemon and a touch of muscat grape . It pairs well with fresh salads , pork and roasted chicken .

www . bevwholesaler . com Spring 2025 • StateWays 15