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How to Run a Profitable Bar with Non-Alcoholic Drinks and Mocktails

How to Run a Profitable Bar with Non-Alcoholic Drinks and Mocktails

Picture of Clarissa Buch Zilberman
Clarissa Buch Zilberman

The “sober curious” movement isn’t just a fleeting trend: Experts predict non-alcoholic drink consumption will increase by a third through 2026.  

But taking advantage of this shift requires more than adding a rogue Shirley Temple to your menu. From inventory and marketing to employee training and pricing, let’s explore strategies for building a successful non-alcoholic beverage program. 

Why non-alcoholic drinks are no longer an afterthought

Here are a few key trends driving the demand for elevated non-alcoholic drink experiences: 

  • Gen Z’s influence: Younger generations are leading the charge toward mindful drinking. Data reveals that 23% of Gen Z and 24% of millennials order non-alcoholic drinks more frequently than older generations, potentially indicating a lasting shift in drinking habits. 
  • The mindful sobriety movement: The desire for mindful drinking is on the rise, with 41% of drinkers actively decreasing their alcohol intake as part of a broader lifestyle change. Meanwhile, around a third are cutting back for physical health reasons, while 23% are motivated by the desire to improve their mental well-being.  
  • The rise of the “flexitarian” drinker: Forget the rigid labels of “drinker” and “nondrinker.” Today’s guests are fluid in their choices, seamlessly switching between their beverage of choice depending on the occasion and their personal preferences. Research shows 82% of those who enjoy non-alcoholic drinks also consume full-strength alcohol, with 41% identifying as “substituters” who choose non-alcoholic options in certain situations.  

Offering compelling non-alcoholic options isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a smart move for any bar looking to thrive. To successfully capture the demand, experiment with these six tips: 

1. Elevate your ingredients

Syrupy concoctions and “virgin” versions of classic cocktails (which often amount to little more than juice and soda) won’t cut it. Non-alcoholic drinkers are looking for quality and sophistication.  

Build your non-alcoholic beverage program with the best possible ingredients, such as: 

  • Freshly squeezed juices: Ditch the sugary pre-made mixes and opt for vibrant, fresh juices. 
  • Homemade syrups and infusions: Get creative with herbs, spices, and fruits to create unique flavor combinations. 
  • Premium non-alcoholic spirits: The market is exploding with high-quality non-alcoholic spirits that mimic the complexity of their alcoholic counterparts. 
  • Artisan sodas and tonics: Craft soda brands offer a sophisticated twist on classic mixers. 

2. Craft cocktails with care

Crafting delicious and visually appealing non-alcoholic cocktails requires the same level of attention and skill as their alcoholic counterparts. Follow these basic principles: 

  • Balance is key: Like alcoholic cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks need the right balance of sweet, sour, bitter, and salty. 
  • Presentation matters: Invest in beautiful glassware and garnishes to elevate the experience. 
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment: Push the boundaries and create unique, signature NA cocktails that encourage guests to come back for more. 

3. Curate a diverse menu

Similar to your food menu, your non-alcoholic beverage offerings should cater to a variety of preferences. A well-rounded selection ensures there’s something for everyone, encouraging larger groups to visit your bar knowing all their needs will be met.  

This means offering a range of options, including non-alcoholic takes on classic cocktails as well as original creations. You’ll also want to cater to different tastes, whether that’s something light and refreshing, sweet and fruity, herbal and savory, or even spicy and smoky. 

4. Train your staff

Your staff is the face of your bar, which means they need to feel confident in guiding guests through your menu and making personalized recommendations. Take the time to educate your bartenders on different non-alcoholic spirits and ingredients.  

But don’t just hand them a product list and expect them to wing it. Instead, organize tastings and workshops to explore the nuances of each ingredient, discuss flavor profiles, and brainstorm creative combinations. 

Pro tip: A digital-first employee training platform can help upskill your staff more efficiently via interactive modules, personalized learning paths, and performance-tracking tools. 

5. Market your non-alcoholic offerings

Don’t let your non-alcoholic drinks go unnoticed. Promote offerings with the same energy and creativity you would for alcoholic cocktails.  

For example, highlight your non-alcoholic menu prominently on your website, social media, and in-house menus. You can also organize tasting events or partner with local businesses to promote your NA offerings. 

6. Choose the right restaurant software

Crafting incredible non-alcoholic drinks is just the first step. To run a profitable bar, you need to have a handle on your operations. That’s where the right restaurant management software can become your secret ingredient: 

  • Track ingredient usage: Restaurant software helps monitor inventory levels—whether exotic fruits and herbs or specialty syrups and bitters—in real-time, ensuring you’re never caught short when the rush hits. 
  • Cost your non-alcoholic cocktails: Knowing the exact cost of each non-alcoholic cocktail is crucial for setting profitable prices. Software can break down the cost of every ingredient, helping you find that sweet balance between happy guests and healthy margins. 
  • Analyze sales data: Which non-alcoholic drinks are flying off the shelves and which are gathering dust? Dig deep into sales data to identify best-selling creations and understand guest preferences. 
  • Forecast demand: Predicting how much of each ingredient you need can be tricky, especially with seasonal fluctuations and evolving trends. Restaurant software can analyze historical data and help forecast demand, so you’re always one step ahead. 
  • Simplify ordering and reduce waste: Say goodbye to last-minute panic orders and overflowing stockrooms. With automated ordering and inventory alerts, you can keep your supply chain running smoothly and minimize waste. 

Shake things up

By crafting a compelling non-alcoholic beverage program, you can attract new guests, enhance your brand image, and watch your bar become a destination for those seeking a night to remember—with or without the booze. 

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