BMA House reports strong growth in alcohol-free choices compared with 2024
Event data comparing 2025 with 2024 shows a marked shift towards alcohol-free options, with soft drinks rising to almost a third of all drinks sold, supported by the introduction of alcohol-free bars and a wider selection of premium soft drinks from sustainability-led suppliers.
As guests increasingly prioritise health, moderation and more considered choices, BMA House is responding with hospitality that helps everyone feel included, whether they are drinking less, choosing low and no alcohol options, or opting for soft drinks.
Across the UK, moderation continues to shape drinking habits. An NHS Digital report* released on 27 January, 2026 states that in 2024, 22% of men and 26% of women had not drunk alcohol in the previous 12 months. Drinkaware** also highlights a longer-term decline in frequent drinking, with 14% of UK adults drinking four or more times a week in 2025, down from 18% in 2018.
BMA House analysed event data across all venue bars, comparing 2025 with 2024.
- Soft drinks increased from 12.5% in 2024 to 31.4% in 2025, up 18.9 percentage points
- Alcoholic drinks decreased from 87.5% to 68.6%, down 18.9 percentage points
- Spirits saw the biggest drop – falling 19.2% between 2024 and 2025, whilst lager and beer fell 3.7%
BMA House attributes this shift to a stronger focus on inclusive hospitality and the growing appeal of flavour-led alcohol-free options. The venue’s alcohol-free bars have been introduced to ensure non-drinkers and moderating guests have genuinely tempting choices, rather than defaulting to standard sugary soft drinks.
Alongside the alcohol-free bars, BMA House has increased the variety of adult soft drinks available from sustainability-minded suppliers, giving guests a broader selection that better matches the look and feel of an event.
“Guests are telling us they want to feel included in every part of the experience, even when they are not drinking alcohol,” said Hannah Robinson. “When we compare 2025 with 2024, the shift is clear. Soft drinks make up a much larger share of what guests are choosing. By introducing alcohol-free bars and expanding our range of premium soft drinks, we are making it easier for guests to choose moderation without feeling like they are missing out.”
The same mindset is influencing food choices. Guests are increasingly looking for more nutritional options and clearer information about where food has come from, including local sourcing, food miles, and carbon considerations. BMA House continues to work with its catering team and supply chain to support event organisers who want hospitality that reflects these priorities.
