A new opinion poll by the UK’s mindful drinking movement, Club Soda, has revealed fresh insight into the nation’s drinking habits and attitudes to alcohol-free drinks.

2,000 UK adults were surveyed by Opinium on behalf of Club Soda. Their answers revealed:

o Whilst 1 in 5 (19%) respondents said they never drink alcohol, half (52%) said they drink alcohol at least once a week, with more than one in ten (12%) drinking four or more times a week. Men drink alcohol more often than women (62% against 41% at least once a week).

o Of those who did drink alcohol-free drinks, 72% said reducing their alcohol consumption in some way was the principal reason. Other common reasons given for drinking alcohol-free drinks were “to enjoy the taste of an alcoholic drink without getting drunk” (33%), “to cut down the amount of alcohol I drink overall” (31%) and “to take a temporary break from drinking” (24%).

o One in five (19%) respondents indicated they drank alcohol-free drinks because they 'often prefer the taste of alcohol-free drinks”. In the past, poor perceptions of the quality of alcohol-free drinks have been a significant factor in preventing their consumption. This shows attitudes may be changing.

o As with alcohol, men are more likely to drink alcohol-free drinks more regularly (27% against 11% at least once a week). Younger people are much more likely to enjoy them: 40% of the 18-34-year-olds drink them at least once a week – only 5% of the 55+ year-olds do.

o Respondents were also asked whether they would want to see alcohol-free drinks more widely promoted as alternatives to alcohol, with a two-to-one majority thinking more extensive promotion of alcohol-free drinks is a good idea (67% against 33%).

(source: Club Soda)