Cocktails sold in quarter of on-trade outlets

A survey by CGA Strategy found that more than half of cocktail drinkers would choose to order them at restaurants, similar to the level for bars, with pubs not far behind.

The latest Mixed Drinks Report shows a 2.3% rise in the last six months in the number of on-trade outlets serving alcohol.

The report says the mojito remains the UK’s most popular cocktail—but among frequent drinkers, choices like Aperol Spritz, Caipirinha and Pornstar Martini are common selections too

Vodka is the country’s most common cocktail ingredient, with the branding of the spirit becoming more important to consumers.

Berry, fruity and citrus are the most popular cocktail flavours for women and younger drinkers—but men tend to prefer smoky and sour flavours

Low-fat and non-alcoholic cocktails take a growing market share, with a quarter of cocktail drinkers now preferring to order a skinny option.

The report says cocktail drinkers drink nearly three serves on an average visit and are willing to pay £5 to £7 for a drink, while promotions like happy hours and two-for-one deals are particularly effective in enticing younger adults.

CGA Strategy client services director Rachel Perryman said: “Cocktails are one of the big growth areas in drinking out, and our Mixed Drinks Report shows how well the on-trade is catering for their drinkers now. Their soaring popularity in restaurants is a sign of just how far cocktails have penetrated into the mainstream, and the increasing sophistication of drinkers shows the trend has a long way to run yet.”