Over the past few years, we’ve seen a significant shift in how people approach drinking. Mindful drinking is no longer just a niche trend—it’s becoming a global movement.
We sat down with Drink Dry and founder Erika Doyle to chat all things no and low alc and how they've witnessed this firsthand with the growing demand for high-quality, alcohol-free alternatives.
// Explaining the Rise of Mindful Drinking
People are no longer willing to compromise on taste or experience simply because they’re skipping alcohol. Whether it’s a crisp Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0 or the refreshing Corona Cero, consumers are embracing the idea that socializing and celebrating don’t have to revolve around alcohol.
This shift is driven by a combination of health consciousness, a desire for balance, and an overall rethinking of societal norms around drinking. It’s an exciting time to be part of this space, and we’re proud to champion the mindful drinking revolution in the Middle East and beyond.
// Tell us about Zebra Striping
Zebra striping, or alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, has become a smart and stylish way to enjoy social occasions without overindulging.
Curating the perfect zebra striping menu is all about variety and flavor. At Drink Dry, we recommend offering a mix of alcohol-free beers, sparkling wines, and creative mocktails. For instance, positioning a classic Corona Cero with alcoholic beers on the menu or offering a sparkling alternative like Wild Idol alongside your traditional champagne options keeps things fresh and fun.
The key is to present non-alcoholic options as equally enticing—beautiful glassware, garnishes, and thoughtful presentation make all the difference. By incorporating these choices, venues can cater to all preferences while promoting moderation.
// How to Elevate Your Dry January
Dry January doesn’t have to feel like a sacrifice — it can be a fun and refreshing reset. Elevating your Dry January is all about exploration and creativity. Try experimenting with non-alcoholic craft spirits to make mocktails that rival your favorite cocktails, or host a tasting evening featuring a variety of alcohol-free beers and wines.
Another tip? Lean into pairing non-alcoholic drinks with your meals. Alcohol-free sparkling wine can elevate a light brunch, while a rich and malty alcohol-free stout pairs perfectly with hearty winter dishes. The goal is to enjoy the experience and discover new flavors without feeling like you’re missing out.
// The Benefits of Taking Part in Dry January
Dry January is more than just a temporary trend—it’s an opportunity to reset and recharge after the indulgences of the festive season. Many people find that taking a break from alcohol improves their sleep, energy levels, and overall focus. It’s also a great way to reevaluate your habits and create a healthier relationship with drinking.
On a social level, it’s empowering to see that you can enjoy events and gatherings without relying on alcohol. Plus, with so many high-quality alcohol-free options available today, it’s easier than ever to stick to your goals while still enjoying great-tasting drinks.
// What’s New for Drink Dry in 2025
2025 marks an exciting leadership transition for Drink Dry. Jonny Nixon, our Commercial Director, is stepping into the role of Managing Director. With his extensive experience and deep understanding of the industry, Jonny will take over the day-to-day operations of the business, allowing me to focus on strategic growth and broader opportunities as CEO. This change reflects our commitment to building a strong leadership team and ensuring Drink Dry is well-positioned for its next chapter of success.
We’re also thrilled to be introducing several new global brands to the Middle East market, further expanding our portfolio of premium alcohol-free options. From innovative new flavors to health-conscious products, we continue to curate the best offerings for our customers.
On the B2B side, we’re growing our partnerships with supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants to ensure alcohol-free beverages are more accessible than ever. For our B2C customers, we’re enhancing our e-commerce platform to make discovering and ordering non-alcoholic drinks as seamless as possible.
As we look ahead, Drink Dry remains committed to shaping the future of mindful drinking in the Middle East and beyond.
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