Consumption of alcohol-free beer has surged in Denmark over the past decade, with households spending more money than ever on these beverages. At the same time, the price increase for alcohol-free beer has been slower compared to regular beers like pilsners.
According to a recent consumer survey conducted by Statistics Denmark, from 2011 to 2021, the average household consumption of low-alcohol beers (under 1%) has increased sixfold, from DKK 8 to DKK 46. This significant rise reflects a growing trend of Danes opting for alcohol-free alternatives. Alcohol-free beers can contain up to 0.5% alcohol and fall within this category, while regular pilsners typically contain 4-5% alcohol.
“The consumer survey reveals that households are now spending much more on low-alcohol beers than before. In recent years, the availability of alcohol-free beers has significantly increased, likely contributing to the growing demand for this type of beverage,” explains Solange Lohmann Rasmussen, a consultant at Statistics Denmark.
The survey data, based on interviews with approximately 2,200 households in Denmark, highlights that the average consumption expenditure on low-alcohol beer and alcohol-free beer has risen steadily. These figures are provided in constant prices, which means they have been adjusted to account for inflation, allowing for meaningful comparisons over time.
Interestingly, while the expenditures on alcohol-free beer and low-alcohol beers have increased from 2011 to 2021, the price increase for these beverages has been slower compared to other types of beers. During the same period, prices for beers with under 1% alcohol rose by 1.7%, whereas pilsners and golden beers saw a 3.0% increase.
Moreover, the consumer survey indicates a decline in the consumption expenditure on pilsners and golden beers from DKK 1,159 per household to DKK 960 per household. However, the consumption expenditure on other alcoholic beers, including special beers, increased from DKK 14 to DKK 234 per household. This shift suggests that special beers have gained popularity among Danish consumers, as they have found their way into refrigerators and bars across the country.
When combining the consumption expenditure on pilsners, golden beers, and other alcoholic beers, the overall expenditure in 2021 remains relatively similar to the levels seen in 2011. This suggests that while the consumption expenditure on traditional beers has remained constant, special beers have partially replaced the demand for these classic beverages. The trend is also evident in the sales of alcoholic beers in general, which have remained steady between 2021, 2022, and 2011.
As the summer season begins, more Danish households are embracing alcohol-free beer options, aligning with a broader shift towards healthier and lifestyle-conscious choices in the beverage market.