Low-alcohol and zero-alcohol beers are becoming increasingly popular, especially among Gen Z and millennials, as health-conscious choices drive a shift in the beer market. Although the market for these drinks is still small, it’s growing rapidly, and experts predict it will become more significant in the coming years. As consumers focus on moderation, more beer brands are expected to tap into this trend by creating innovative, alcohol-free options that still deliver the classic beer taste.
The demand for non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beers is particularly strong in large cities, where people are more aware of issues like drinking and driving. Key brands in this segment include Budweiser 0.0, Heineken 0.0, Bavaria, and Coolberg. Industry leaders like Vinod Giri, Director General of the Brewers Association of India, highlight that while the numbers are still small, the growth rates for alcohol-free beers are encouraging.
Companies are adapting to consumer demand by working on new technologies to craft beers with the same flavor, whether or not they contain alcohol. Vikram Bahl, CMO of United Breweries, which makes Heineken and Kingfisher, notes that while the trend of moderation is still emerging in India, it is gaining global momentum, and they will continue to expand their non-alcoholic offerings.
At the same time, premium beers are growing much faster than regular beers in India, with growth rates more than double that of the overall market. Flavored beers are also gaining popularity among younger consumers, with this segment expected to continue growing.
