Has the explosion of alcohol-free options actually narrowed our choices? That's the provocative question at the heart of my conversation with Andy Mee, founder of The Alcohol-Free Drinks Company and a passionate advocate for quality non-alcoholic beverages.

Four years ago, Andy was knocking on doors trying to convince pubs and restaurants they needed even a single alcohol-free option. Today, the landscape has transformed dramatically - but not necessarily for the better. While most venues now stock alcohol-free drinks, they're increasingly dominated by "blue label" products from industry giants, pushing innovative independent producers to the sidelines.

"When two reps from a well-known drinks distributor stood in front of my stand and said 'what's the fucking point in that?'" Andy recalls of his early days championing alcohol-free options. Now those same distributors are buying out venues' alcohol-free business, replacing craft options with mainstream alternatives.

We explore the fascinating parallels between today's alcohol-free market and the craft beer revolution of years past. Independent brewers are creating extraordinary alcohol-free beers with technical brilliance, but face distribution challenges against corporations with exclusive contracts across thousands of venues. With six pubs closing weekly in the UK and chain establishments dominating, the path for quality independent options narrows further.

The cultural shift is undeniable though. In Germany, 15% of all beer consumed is alcohol-free compared to just 1-3% in the UK. Among younger generations, the change is even more dramatic - a survey at Loughborough University found 50% of students don't drink alcohol at all. As Andy puts it: "Don't fear your peers, you're still drinking beer."

Whether you're sober curious or fully committed to alcohol-free living, this conversation will change how you think about your next drink choice. We even put our favourite alcohol-free lagers, IPAs and stouts head-to-head in a spirited competition!

Curious about exploring quality alcohol-free options beyond the mainstream? Visit alcoholfreedrinks.co.uk and discover what you've been missing. Your taste buds will thank you.

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