As your venue finding and event management experts, we continuously seek innovative ways to elevate experiences for our clients. In recent years we’ve witnessed a refreshing trend in the events industry – a growing preference for zero-alcohol drinks at events.
The International Wine and Spirit Research (IWSR) estimates that the volume of global sales of non-alcohol and low-alcohol beverages will increase by 31 per cent by 2024.
Embracing this shift, we explore how ditching the booze might be a solid solution for your next event.
Sustainable Sipping
Many businesses strive to minimise their environmental impact at events to do their bit in the current climate crisis. 0% alcohol drinks align with this ethos as they often have a smaller carbon footprint compared to alcoholic beverages.
The production of alcoholic drinks often involves energy-intensive processes such as fermentation, distillation, and bottling. In contrast, zero-alcohol drinks typically require less energy and resources to produce, resulting in a lower carbon footprint.
Choosing local, organic, and eco-friendly ingredients for mocktails and zero-proof cocktails showcases a corporate commitment to sustainability and responsible consumption.
Already, many zero-alcohol drinks are crafted from locally sourced ingredients. This supports regional farmers and producers and contributes to a more sustainable local economy.
The production of alcoholic beverages, especially spirits and beer, requires significant water usage for fermentation and cleaning processes. In fact, one litre of beer uses around 3-6 litres of water during the brewing process. However, for alcohol-free beer this volume drops as it uses less water during the fermentation process, making it more sustainable.
Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle
Health consciousness has become a prevailing theme, with people prioritising their wellness. Companies, too, are embracing this trend by introducing healthier options at events. Zero-alcohol drinks, such as alcohol-free wines, specially created mocktails, and zero-proof spirits, are becoming a staple at meetings and events.
By offering these alternatives, event organisers give attendees the option to be healthier while still enjoying a tasty drink.
Inclusivity
People from all backgrounds and cultures attend meetings and events, making it essential to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable.
Embracing zero-alcohol drinks ensures that non-drinkers, designated drivers, and those who prefer abstaining can participate fully in the celebrations without feeling left out. This thoughtful consideration develops a sense of solidarity, encouraging networking and stronger relationships.
Enhancing Focus and Productivity
At corporate events, where networking and discussions are a huge aspect of bringing people together, maintaining focus and productivity is crucial.
Zero-alcohol drinks, with their hydrating properties and mental clarity benefits, can help attendees remain sharp and engaged throughout the event.
As an event management agency, we have noticed that clients who introduced zero-alcohol options witnessed increased attentiveness and a more productive atmosphere during their gatherings.
Zero-alcohol: Our mocktail menu
Fancy swapping to non-alcoholic drinks? Try some of these easy-to-follow recipes inspired by Bien Venue.
Boardroom Booster
Ingredients (serves 6)
- 1 tsp clear honey
- A small bunch of coriander leaves
- Juice of 1 lime
- 750ml pineapple juice
- A handful of ice
- 400ml tonic water
Method
Pour the honey into a wide bowl and dip the rim of the glasses in then put these to one side. Chop the coriander leaves and place in a cocktail shaker with the lime juice, 100ml pineapple juice and a handful of ice. Shake together until the outside of the shaker feels cold. Strain into the glasses, add extra ice cubes and divide 650ml pineapple juice and the tonic water between the glasses.
Conference Cooler
Ingredients (serves 6)
- 100g ginger, scrubbed and roughly chopped
- 1 lemon, chopped
- 100g light muscovado sugar
- 1-litre bottle of chilled lemonade or sparkling water, to serve
Method
Put the ginger and lemon in a bowl, pour over 300ml water and blitz with a hand blender until very smooth. Strain through a sieve into a bowl, then press the pulp to remove as much liquid as possible. Add the sugar to the bowl and blitz again. Decant into a bottle. Chill until ready to use. Add the lemonade or sparkling water to dilute before serving.
Idea Igniter
Ingredients (serves 6)
- 3 tbsp pomegranate seeds
- A big bunch of mint
- 2 limes, quartered, plus slices to garnish
- 1l pomegranate juice
- 500ml lemonade
Method
A day ahead, divide the pomegranate seeds between the holes in an ice cube tray, top up with water and freeze. Reserve half the mint for serving, and tear the rest into a large jug with the lime quarters. Bash the mint and lime with a rolling pin to release the flavours. Add the pomegranate juice and lemonade. Put ice cubes in each glass, then strain over the pomegranate mix through a small sieve. Garnish with lime slices and more mint.
Très Bien
Ingredients (serves 4)
- 120ml blue curacao syrup
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp orange juice
- 480ml lemon lime seltzer
- 2 lemon slices (for garnish)
- 2 orange slices (for garnish)
Method
Fill two tall highball glasses with ice. Pour half of the blue curacao syrup into each glass. Add the lemon juice and orange juice to each glass. Top each mocktail with the seltzer and use a cocktail stirrer to give each glass a quick stir. Garnish each glass with a lemon slice and an orange slice and enjoy.
Innovation Infusion
Ingredients (serves 4)
- 480g frozen strawberries
- 100g fresh strawberries
- 100ml lime juice
- 100g maple syrup or your sweetener of choice
- 120ml non-alcoholic rum or a couple of drops of bitters optional
Method
Blend all ingredients together in a high-speed blender. Test the consistency. If it’s too thick, add ¼ cup water. Blend, then test again. Add a little more if required until it reaches the desired consistency. Test the flavour. Add a little extra sweetener or lime to taste. Blend again and serve garnished with fresh strawberries and lime.
Cheers to sober success in corporate events!
At Bien Venue, we’re embracing the rising trend of zero-alcohol drinks at corporate events. By offering a healthier and more inclusive drinks selection, we curate memorable experiences catering to the diverse needs and preferences of our clients’ guests.
Contact us to plan your next event!