Mocktails are here to stay: Nature’s alternative

The data tells us that mocktails are not just a passing trend—they are on an impressive upward trajectory, with a staggering 58% increase in searches year-on-year. Going from 215519 searches in 2022 to an estimated 215519 in 2026, mocktails are rapidly capturing the interest of South Africans. Our analysis indicates that the Western Cape leads this charge, accounting for 43% of the total mocktail-related searches. This province’s affinity for non-alcoholic beverages is clear and is significantly influencing national trends.

What jumps out in the data is the consistent interest in mocktail keywords, from “mocktails” to “alcohol-free s,” indicating that consumers are not just curious but are in active pursuit of these drinks. The significant year-on-year growth suggests that more consumers are opting for healthier lifestyle choices, aligning with the global “sober curious” movement that has seen a notable rise in interest across demographics.

Additionally, our data points to an evolution in social drinking cultures. As the mocktail market expands, venues and retailers will need to adapt their offerings to cater to this growing demographic. The clear upward trend is a call to action for suppliers and retailers: the time to diversify your beverage selection is now.

Data from PartyTrends chart
RegionValueYoYVerdict
2022215,519—Chasing
2023192,260—Chasing
2024308,370—Chasing
2025295,430—Chasing
2026367,818—Chasing
Headline from the data

Mocktails peaked at ~367,818 annual searches in 2026 (+25% vs 2025). 2026 is tracking ~367,818 (projected full year).

The market is shifting: Mocktails gaining ground

The implications of this growth in mocktails for the South African market are profound. For one, the beverage industry in provinces like Gauteng and the Western Cape must recalibrate their portfolios to include a diverse range of non-alcoholic options. With the Western Cape showing a penchant for mocktails, as evidenced by its 10.5 searches per 1,000 people, suppliers must strategize to offer products that resonate with local preferences.

Notably, KZN is also catching up, recording a healthy interest in mocktails at 6.8 searches per 1,000 people, indicating an expanding market. For businesses looking to attract health-conscious customers, investing in mocktails can enhance sales and brand loyalty while providing an alternative during the festive season, when alcohol consumption typically spikes.

The seasonal variations are also noteworthy. December, a month synonymous with celebration, could be an ideal time for retailers to focus on mocktails, aligning with the sober curious trend as more individuals seek alternatives to traditional festive drinks. Retailers should prepare their stock accordingly and consider promotional strategies that highlight these beverages during peak season.

215519
2022
leader
192260
2023
challenger
Yearly share
2022
15.6%
2023
13.9%
2024
22.4%
2025
21.4%
2026
26.7%
Key takeaways
  • Winner: See chart
  • Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths — lead retail channels
  • Source: PartyTrends Google Keyword Planner, Jun 2022–May 2026

Consumer behavior: A shift towards health-conscious drinking

The South African consumer is increasingly leaning towards health-conscious choices, and the rise of mocktails reflects this shift. This trend suggests a growing desire to enjoy the social aspects of drinking without the side effects of alcohol. The data indicates that the keyword “sober-curious” has surged by 203.1%, demonstrating the increasing interest among young adults seeking alternatives.

Furthermore, the rise of food delivery services like Mr D Food and Uber Eats has made ordering mocktails easier than ever, especially in urban centres. Suburbs and townships alike are seeing increased searches for mocktail recipes and ingredients, indicating that this trend is not limited to high-income demographics. Consumers are eager to experiment with flavors like kombucha and matcha, which have also seen a rise in popularity.

This behavior illustrates a generational shift: younger consumers, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are redefining drink culture. They are looking for options that complement their health and wellness goals, affirming that mocktails are a staple in the evolving landscape of social drinking.

What retailers should do

For retailers like Pick n Pay, Checkers, and Woolworths, the mocktail trend offers a prime opportunity to rethink their beverage aisles. Stocking brands like Lucky Saint and Erdinger Alkoholfrei can cater to the health-conscious consumer. These brands align perfectly with the rising mocktail culture and should be prominently displayed, alongside essential mocktail mixers like tonic water and specialty syrups.

Checkers should consider creating a dedicated mocktail section, showcasing not only non-alcoholic s like Castle Free and Savanna Non-Alcoholic but also mixers and garnishes that encourage creativity. Seasonal offerings and promotional events—like mocktail-making workshops—could draw customers and enhance engagement.

Spar and Tops at Spar can also enhance their offerings by introducing ready-made mocktail kits or ingredients, appealing to families looking for fresh, alcohol-free options at gatherings or parties. By focusing on these in-demand products, retailers can position themselves as leaders in the mocktail market.

Retail action — stock this
Pick n PayCheckersShopriteWoolworths
mocktailsParty CityAce Party SuppliesBalloon Emporium