How Non-Alc Bottle Shops Are Transforming Beverage Culture

At Do'Mo HQ, we have always been driven by a singular vision: to redefine the way we connect, celebrate, and socailize—all without alcohol. The cultural shift we’re witnessing in social drinking isn’t just a passing trend; it’s a revolution. 

Non-alcoholic bottle shops are at the forefront of this transformation, championing a movement that celebrates mindfulness, wellness,and meaningful experiences. At Do'Mo, we’re proud to be part of this exciting journey.

A Shift Towards Mindful Drinking 

A few years ago, I experienced a significant change in how I approached drinking. It turns out, I wasn’t alone in this thought process. According to a PBS NewsHour report, sales of non-alcoholic beer, wine, and spirits surged by over 40% between 2021 and 2023. This growth reflects a broader, collective reimagining of how we unwind and connect socially.

This shift is more than a trend, it’s a cultural movement that continues to grow, offering exciting possibilities for the sober curious. And the numbers back it up:

• Nearly 40% of U.S. adults either closely or occasionally follow a sober-curious lifestyle (Mintel).

• The percentage of U.S. adults under 35 who drink alcohol has dropped by 10% over the past two decades (Gallup).

• One-third of adults who avoid alcohol do so due to health concerns and 70% of young adults say they aren’t interested in drinking (2022 Food Institute report).

I find these statistics to be a compelling indicator of a profound shift in social norms. They highlight an increasing demand for thoughtful, quality alternatives—proof that the way we celebrate and connect is undergoing a transformative evolution. This is precisely what Susie and I had in mind when formulating Do'Mo, to offer a new healthy way to socialise.

What is the Sober Curious Trend?

The rise of specialist booze free bottle shops in cities like New York where we chose to launch Do’Mo, dedicated exclusively to non-alcoholic drinks, has been one of the most exciting developments of this movement. Among my favorites are Spirited Away, Minus Moonshine, Hekate and Generation NA, trailblazers that have completely shifted consumer accessibility for zero proof alcohol alternatives.

I’ve found the passion and expertise of the staff at specialist bottle shops to be unmatched. They’ll educate you with curated selections of booze free cocktails, craft mocktails, alcohol-free spirits, and zero-proof alternatives that often rival—and frequently surpass—their alcoholic counterparts in flavor, complexity, and experience. Each visit feels like stepping into a treasure trove of delicious spirits, spritzers, and elixirs that make cutting back on alcohol an achievable goal. But more than that, they have built a connected community with a real family vibe. 

NYC Sober Community Hubs

At Do’Mo, we chose New York City as our launchpad precisely because of this dynamic community of non-alcoholic enthusiasts. These hubs are more than retail spaces, aided and abetted by pop ups like Third Place Bar and Listenbar; they're sober communities that host  tastings, mindful drinking events, and provide resources that invite people to dive into the diverse and evolving world of zero proof alcohol. It’s amazing to see how they are reshaping the beverage landscape, proving that sophistication and flavor don’t require alcohol.

Building Across America

This revolution is far from isolated, I recently had the joy of attending the Mindful Drinking Fest in Washington (a wonderful event which you all must go to) where I was lucky enough to meet amazing characters from East to West coast, all of whom are driven by the same passion to become a hub for the non-alc revolution. I also met Laura Silverman, founder of Zero Proof Nation who has been charting and cheerleading the sober living expansion. Want to find your nearest non-alc bottle shop? Check out her worldwide location map - here. 

Why are Non-Alcoholic Drinks Gaining Popularity?

For me, the decision to explore low or no-alcohol alternatives was shaped by having young children, managing an intense work schedule, and, dare I admit, the realities of getting older. Of course, everyone has their own unique living sober journey and for many younger adults it’s a focus on mindfulness and digital resources like Sunnyside, a mindful drinking app, offer great support. So there are certain common themes making the shift to alcohol-free living easier than ever:

• Health and Wellness: Younger generations are prioritizing their mental and physical health, viewing alcohol reduction as part of a holistic approach to wellbeing.

• Quality Alternatives: Non-alcoholic options have evolved dramatically. Today’s non-alc beverages are crafted with complex flavor profiles.

• Functional Ingredients: A growing awareness about the value of adaptogens, nootropics, and botanicals for enhancing mood.

At Do’Mo we focus on functional ingredients that help build togetherness, confidence, relaxation and happiness. Non-alc bottle shops provide expert guidance on the benefits of different functional ingredients and how they shape your mood and energy, helping you choose the right alcohol-free beverage for your social occasion.  

The Future of Drinking

Whether you're sober-curious, looking to reduce alcohol intake, focusing on mindful drinking or simply exploring new beverage experiences, these specialized stores offer a welcoming, informative environment that goes beyond traditional retail.

Cheers!