The Future of Drinking.

In June 2024, Small Beer partnered with YouGov to conduct a comprehensive survey of over 2,000 participants. The results were clear—moderation is not just a trend; it’s the future of drinking. More people are turning to mid-strength beers, looking for a balance between enjoying social occasions and making healthier, more mindful choices.

The Move to Mid-Strength In a surprising shift, 37% of adults over the age of 25 would choose a mid-strength beer, with 2-3% alcohol content, versus just 28% who said they would prefer a 4-5% ABV beer. This shift highlights a growing desire for drinks that provide all the flavour without the heaviness, allowing people to enjoy a beer without compromising their next-day plans.

Small Beer has been pioneering this movement from the beginning. Our beers, brewed below 2.8% ABV, offer the perfect alternative for those seeking a more balanced drinking experience. As more people choose moderation, Small Beer stands at the forefront of this change.

More drinkers are cutting back on alcohol to avoid the negative impacts it can have on their well-being. According to the survey, 34% of respondents are reducing their intake to manage their productivity and health the following day. This conscious shift toward moderation reflects a broader understanding of the benefits of drinking mindfully, without sacrificing social experiences.

In his book on tasting beer, British writer Mark Dredge agrees that there’s not much of a distinction between the styles, but says that Hazy IPA tends to be lighter-bodied, whereas a NEIPA is “thicker in mouthfeel and texture, cloudier in appearance, and often more aromatic.”

Sleep plays a significant role in overall health, and our survey found that more than half of respondents (53%) said alcohol negatively affects their rest. This awareness is driving more people to choose mid-strength options, like Small Beer, that fit better with their health goals and daily routines.

While moderation is on the rise, socialising with a drink in hand remains important to many. The survey showed that 60% of adults still enjoy spending time with friends over a good beer. With Small Beer, they don’t have to compromise. Our mid-strength beers offer the best of both worlds—great taste and the freedom to stay balanced.

The findings from our YouGov survey make one thing clear: moderation is becoming the new norm. People are choosing to drink smarter, and Small Beer is leading the charge. With our range of full-flavoured, mid-strength beers, we’re perfectly positioned to meet this growing demand for balance.

Because the future of drinking isn’t about excess—it’s about enjoying every moment without compromise. And at Small Beer, we’ve been shaping that future from the start.