Today, at Sanzalc, we are seeing a silent revolution in the world of events: 54% of French people say they want to reduce their alcohol consumption. The days when you only had the choice between alcohol and plain water are definitely over. No more “but why don’t you drink?” troublesome and limited options for those who prefer to stay sober.
Indeed, the market for non-alcoholic drinks is literally exploding in France. Demand for these alternatives increased 1.5 times between 2019 and 2023, and we are only at the beginning of this transformation. Our alcohol-free cellar Sanzalc now offers more than 450 references between 0.0% and 0.5%, proving that “alcohol-free” no longer rhymes with “no choice” or “no taste”.
Moreover, more than 29% of French people regularly consume NoLo (No/Low alcohol) drinks, with an expected annual growth of 10% until 2025. In our cellar Sanzalc in Lille and our Orchies boutique, we see this trend confirmed every day: customers no longer come out of constraint but out of curiosity and taste pleasure.
Finally, how do you choose from this abundant new offering for your next event? A wedding, birthday or corporate party deserves options that impress all your guests, even the most skeptical. That's why we've created this expert guide - to help you navigate this new world of alcohol-free wineries and find the one that will transform your event into a memorable experience for everyone.
Understand the advantages of an alcohol-free cellar like Sanzalc for your events
Firstly, choosing an alcohol-free cellar for your events represents an inclusive approach that is quickly gaining ground. At the house of Sanzalc, we observe this evolution daily in our stores in Lille and Orchies. Customers are looking for sophisticated alternatives to satisfy all their guests, whether they are abstinent by choice, by necessity or simply curious to discover new flavors.
Why alcohol-free is becoming more and more attractive
Certainly, the trend toward healthier celebrations is accelerating. Modern consumers prioritize well-being and mindfulness, even during festivities. In France, the demand for quality alcohol-free alternatives has seen an increase. meteoric progress in recent years. Besides, in our cellar Sanzalc, We notice that customers are no longer simply looking for substitute drinks, but for authentic taste experiences.
Furthermore, new generations are adopting a different approach to consumption. Contrary to popular belief, it is not out of puritanism, but out of a desire to remain in control of their choices and their health. This societal evolution is directly reflected in theexplosion in demand for events offering elaborate alcohol-free alternatives.
The benefits for your guests and your image
Indeed, offering a selection of premium non-alcoholic drinks at your event has many advantages. Firstly, the inclusion of all your guests - people who don't consume alcohol feel valued rather than marginalized. Then, the reduction of risks linked to road safety and inappropriate behavior guarantees a more serene atmosphere.
In addition, your brand image or personal reputation benefits from such an approach. By proposing alternatives Sanzalc carefully selected, you demonstrate your attention to detail and your consideration for everyone. This makes the event memorable for the right reasons, with guests fully present to enjoy every moment.
However, the health aspect also constitutes a strong argument. Modern soft drinks often offer better nutritional profiles, with fewer calories and sugars than their alcoholic counterparts. This perfectly addresses the growing concerns about balanced diet, even during celebrations.
The rise of the NoLo movement in France
At the same time, the NoLo (No/Low alcohol) movement is establishing itself as a real revolution in the French drinks landscape. This phenomenon, initially observed in Anglo-Saxon countries, now finds a powerful echo in France. Specialized cellars like Sanzalc in Lille and Orchies bear witness to this transformation of the market.
Certainly, French manufacturers have understood the opportunity. Today, there are high-quality local alternatives: dealcoholized wines, botanical spirits, alcohol-free craft beers. This diversification considerably enriches the offer available for your events and facilitates the creation of a balanced drinks menu.
Finally, the economic aspect deserves to be highlighted. Although premium NoLo products are an investment, they often offer excellent value compared to equivalent alcoholic beverages. For your guests who are driving or who want to stay clear-headed throughout the event, these alternatives represent invaluable value.
Through our experience at Sanzalc alcohol-free winery, we find that events including a thoughtful selection of NoLo drinks consistently generate positive feedback. Opinions on Sanzalc confirm that even the most skeptical are surprised by the aromatic richness and sophistication of these new proposals.
The different types of alcohol-free cellars available
Image Source: The Voice of the North
Currently, the non-alcoholic drinks market is structured around different distribution channels, each with its own particularities. To organize your event, several options are available to you depending on your specific needs.
Specialized cellar like Sanzalc
Firstly, specialized cellars represent the most complete option for discovering the world of non-alcoholic drinks. Sanzalc alcohol-free cellar, located in the heart of the Lille metropolis, offers an exceptional selection of more of 450 references alternative drinks for adults. In particular, you will find wines, beers, spirits and non-alcoholic cocktails carefully selected for their taste quality. The cellar Sanzalc Lille, located at 39 rue de l'Hôpital Militaire, completes the Orchies boutique opened in September 2023. Moreover, these two establishments now represent 60% of turnover of the brand, demonstrating the enthusiasm for this concept.
In addition, the team of Sanzalc offers a real personalized advice service, with even free tastings every Saturday at 4 p.m. in the Lille boutique. This educational approach allows customers to discover new flavors before making their choice for an event like Christmas, for example.
Distributors for professionals
At the same time, for corporate events or large receptions, specialized distributors like “Sans Moderation” constitute an interesting alternative. This company is dedicated to the distribution of alcohol-free products to professionals in the CHR sector (Cafes, Hotels, Restaurants). Furthermore, traditional distributors like C10 also offer BRSA (Refreshing Non-Alcoholic Drinks) in their catalog, with formats adapted to professional needs.
Thus, these distributors offer the advantage of being able to order in large volumes, with commercial conditions adapted to professionals and logistics optimized for major events.
And you know what? Sanzalc also distributes for professionals whether they are in the CHR sector or businesses!
Delicatessens and concept stores
Then, many delicatessens diversify their offering with sections dedicated to quality non-alcoholic drinks. For example, Pomme d'Ambre selects high-end products such as tonics and ginger beer from Hysope. In addition, these stores often offer a coherent universe with a cutting-edge selection and expert advice.
However, their range is generally more limited than that of specialized cellars, but can be perfectly suited for intimate events where quality takes precedence over diversity.
E-commerce platforms like Sanzalc
Finally, specialized online sales platforms represent a practical and accessible option. Sanzalc, young player 100% dedicated to non-alcoholic or low-strength adult drinks (0% to 0.5%), offers a catalog which exceeds more than 450 references rigorously selected to satisfy all consumption profiles. As a reminder, the vision of Arnaud Calvet, its founder, has always been to make the best non-alcoholic drinks easily accessible to everyone. It is for this reason that the 1st store Sanzalc was born on the internet on May 20, 2023. So that everyone who did not have a grocery store or an alcohol-free cellar nearby could also participate in the party!
Moreover, Sanzalc regularly organizes promotional highlights: for example, free delivery or a 10% reduction for any first order by subscribing to the newsletter. For thematic events, Sanzalc honors its Advent and After-Cooking Calendars, or discovery boxes, or even “sober curious” selections: alcohol-free gins, 0% craft beers or other festive and inclusive formats.
This positioning allows Sanzalc to meet the expectations of a broad audience: adults who choose not to drink, drivers, pregnant women, or simply anyone looking for a healthy, friendly alternative without compromise on taste or experience.
Through these different channels, you will certainly find the ideal formula to supply your event with quality non-alcoholic drinks, whether you favor advice in a specialized store, the practicality of e-commerce or the expertise of professional distributors.
How to choose the ideal cellar according to your type of event
Choosing an alcohol-free cellar for your event requires consideration adapted to your specific context. In our experience at Sanzalc alcohol-free cellar, we have found that several factors determine the ideal selection.
Wedding, birthday or corporate event, Sanzalc answers it!
First, the nature of your event directly influences your choice of cellar. For a wedding, we recommend Sanzalc Lille which offers elegant options like our non-alcoholic champagnes and sparkling wines. These drinks create a festive atmosphere while remaining inclusive. On the other hand, for a birthday, our Orchies boutique offers fun and original alternatives, including ready-to-serve cocktails that impress with their presentation.
Concerning corporate events, the cellar Sanzalc offers professional solutions with the possibility of delivery and presentation on site. Our team can even organize a preliminary tasting for your organizing committee, thus guaranteeing choices adapted to your corporate culture.
Number of guests and taste preferences: advice from Sanzalc
Then the quantity and diversity of drinks directly depends on the number of guests. For an intimate event (less than 30 people), we recommend 3-4 different references. For an average reception (30-100 people), 5-7 references ensure satisfactory variety. Beyond, our cellar Sanzalc can develop a personalized procurement plan.
As for preferences, plan for a balanced distribution: 40% soft options (such as alternative and artisanal sodas), 30% sophisticated drinks (non-alcoholic wines), 30% alternatives to spirits to satisfy all palates.
Non-alcoholic food and drink pairings
Furthermore, the food and drink pairing remains essential even without alcohol. At the house of Sanzalc Lille and Orchies, we suggest specific pairings: kombucha goes perfectly with light starters, non-alcoholic wines go well with main courses, while our spirits alternatives ideally complement desserts.
In fact, our alcohol-free cellar offers tasting sheets for each product, making your pairing choices easier. This gastronomic approach transforms the absence of alcohol into a real culinary asset.
Examples of tailor-made packs at Sanzalc
Finally, to simplify your organization, Sanzalc offers suitable thematic packs. Our “Celebration” package includes a festive assortment with three sparkling bottles and two spirits alternatives. The “Discovery” pack offers a varied selection ideal for introducing your guests to NoLo drinks.
In addition, based on feedback from our customers, we have developed seasonal boxes that adapt to temperatures and atmospheres. Our personalized service even allows you to create your own assortment, perfectly reflecting the identity of your event while ensuring a memorable experience for all your guests.
Focus on Sanzalc : a benchmark alcohol-free cellar
“I am lucky to have craft breweries nearby in Hauts-de-France and in Belgium, which have been working on zero degrees for several years: Gobrecht in Lille, and La Trappe in the Netherlands.” — Arnaud Calvet, Founder of Sanzalc, alcohol-free cellar
Regarding the world of alcohol-free cellars, Sanzalc has established itself as an essential reference in the North of France, offering a unique experience to lovers of alternative drinks.
Presentation of Sanzalc Lille and Sanzalc Orchies
Founded by Arnaud Calvet, the adventure Sanzalc began in Orchies in September 2023 with the opening of a first store at 13b rue François Herbo. Given its success, the brand quickly developed with a second address in the heart of Lille, at 39 rue de l'Hôpital Militaire, inaugurated in June 2024. Remarkably, these two establishments today represent 60% of turnover of the company. In Lille, it is Thomas, a young 34-year-old manager, who welcomes customers in a space with the black and pink colors characteristic of the brand.
Reviews on Sanzalc : what customers say
Concretely, the clientele of Sanzalc is particularly diverse, ranging from thirty-year-olds to older people, men and women alike. Customer reviews reveal real enthusiasm for certain flagship products such as Sober Spirits alcohol-free rum, described as "impeccable in Ti'Punch" by a customer named Claude Louis. Another customer, Alex, says it's "one of the best non-alcoholic rums on the market". To facilitate discovery, free tastings are organized every Saturday at 4 p.m. in the Lille boutique.
The product categories offered
In detail, Sanzalc offers a complete assortment organized into distinct categories: beers, wines, cocktails, spirits, sparkling wines and soft drinks. The Lille cellar presents around 200 references while Sanzalc Orchies and the online store offer up to 500 different products. Indeed, each category benefits from a selection of the “10 best” products, facilitating customer orientation.
The flagship brands available at Sanzalc
About iconic brands, Sanzalc highlights award-winning products such as Sober Spirits, voted “best non-alcoholic spirit in the world”, wines such as Arjolle Équilibre Zéro 0.0%, local beers such as SAM from the Gobrecht brewery, and even Glen Dochus whisky. Mainly, the products are selected for their taste quality and the approach of the producers, with particular attention paid to French production which represents 70 to 80% of the wine offering.
Practical advice from Sanzalc to make your beverage selection a success
To fully succeed in your selection of non-alcoholic drinks, careful preparation is required. At the house of Sanzalc, we have found that this preparation makes all the difference between a successful event and an exceptional experience.
Test products before the event
First of all, plan a preparation phase 2-3 months before your event to estimate the percentage of non-consumers (15-20% on average). Moreover, Sanzalc Lille organizes free tastings every Saturday at 4 p.m. in its boutique, an ideal opportunity to discover the flavors before you decide.
Think about logistics and delivery
Then, calculate your needs precisely: plan for 1.5 to 2 glasses per person of premium drinks, knowing that 25% of guests will opt exclusively for non-alcoholic drinks. Generally, for 75cl bottles, allow 1 bottle for 3-4 people. The cellar Sanzalc also offers a delivery service directly to your event location.
Provide options for all tastes
In addition, diversify your offer with 2-3 different references to satisfy all palates. Indeed, identify the taste preferences of your guests: bitter, fruity, spicy or floral notes. For optimal service, present non-alcoholic drinks in the same way as alcoholic drinks, with the same glassware and the same care.
Use thematic boxes or packs
Finally, explore the thematic boxes available at Sanzalc alcohol-free cellar which brings together the best of 0% drinks: craft beers, dealcoholized wines and cocktails ready to enjoy. These boxes, designed as moments to experience, are perfect gifts to celebrate the art of living joyful moderation, with price varying from €19.90 to €49.
Conclusion
Finally, the world of non-alcoholic drinks is experiencing a real revolution, and cellars like Sanzalc position themselves at the forefront of this transformation. Our journey through this expanding universe demonstrates that the absence of alcohol no longer implies any compromise on quality, sophistication or taste pleasure.
So, offering a selection of NoLo drinks at your next event is no longer just an option, but a real opportunity to enrich the experience of all your guests. Whether it's a wedding, birthday or corporate party, alcohol-free alternatives now create memorable moments without the hassles associated with traditional drinking.
In particular, the diversity of products available at Sanzalc - from dealcoholized wines to botanical spirits, craft beers and ready-to-serve cocktails - allows you to design a drinks menu that is as impressive as it is inclusive. This wealth of options demonstrates the maturity of a market that meets the growing expectations of French consumers.
Certainly, interest in these alternatives will continue to grow in the years to come. The figures speak for themselves: 1.5-fold increase in demand between 2019 and 2023, and an expected annual growth of 10% until 2025. We are witnessing the emergence of a new culture of celebration, where conscious choice replaces habitual consumption.
Ultimately, call on an alcohol-free cellar like Sanzalc for your event, it means choosing innovation, inclusion and quality. It's transforming a perceived constraint into a distinctive asset, offering everyone the freedom to fully savor the present moment, and perhaps even redefining together what it really means to party.
Key takeaways
The non-alcoholic drinks market is experiencing explosive growth in France, providing new opportunities to create inclusive and memorable events.
• 54% of French people want to reduce their alcohol consumption, creating growing demand for quality alternatives at events
• Choose your cellar according to the type of event : specialized cellars like Sanzalc for personalized advice, distributors for large volumes, e-commerce for convenience
• Allow 1.5 to 2 glasses per person of premium non-alcoholic drinks, knowing that 25% of guests will opt exclusively for these alternatives
• Test products before the event thanks to the free tastings offered by specialized cellars to guarantee the satisfaction of your guests
• Diversify your offer with 2-3 different references to satisfy all palates: sweet, sophisticated options and alternatives to spirits
• Thematic boxes simplify your organization while providing a consistent and professional experience for your guests
This NoLo drinks revolution transforms events into more inclusive experiences, where every guest can fully enjoy the celebration without compromising on quality or taste pleasure.
FAQs
Q1. What are the advantages of offering non-alcoholic drinks at an event? Offering non-alcoholic drinks helps include all guests, reduces safety risks, improves your image, and offers healthier options. This creates a more inclusive and memorable atmosphere for all participants.
Q2. How do I choose the right alcohol-free cellar for my event? The choice depends on the type of event, the number of guests and their preferences. Specialized cellars like Sanzalc offer personalized advice, while distributors are suitable for large volumes. Also consider the diversity of products offered and the possibility of prior tastings.
Q3. How many non-alcoholic drinks should you have for an event? Allow around 1.5 to 2 glasses per person of premium non-alcoholic drinks. In general, 25% of guests will opt exclusively for these alternatives. For 75cl bottles, count 1 bottle for 3-4 people who do not consume alcohol.
Q4. What types of non-alcoholic drinks are popular for events? Dealcoholized wines, non-alcoholic craft beers, botanical spirits and ready-to-serve cocktails are popular. Kombucha, craft sodas and champagne alternatives are also popular for creating a festive and varied experience.
Q5. How can I ensure that non-alcoholic drinks will appeal to my guests? Test the products before the event, for example during free tastings offered by some wineries. Diversify your offering with 2-3 different references to cover various taste preferences. Present these drinks with the same care as alcoholic beverages for the best experience.
