A new healthier drinks trend, known as 'coasting', is gaining momentum in the UK as summer approaches. This trend involves choosing alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer, and cocktails that are approximately half the strength of their traditional counterparts.
Growing Popularity of Mid-Strength Options
A recent poll conducted by Ocado revealed that 39% of UK adults are now selecting more mid-strength drink options compared to a year ago. Overall sales of mid-strength alcohol have surged by 151% year-on-year, prompting Ocado to expand its range of these products. Notably, sales of Quarter Proof's 15% ABV London Dry have increased by 171% since 2024 on Ocado, while Quarter Proof's 15% ABV Blanco Agave Spirit Drink has seen a 128% month-on-month rise in 2026.
Vanessa Pearson, Trading Manager for Beers, Wines and Spirits at Ocado Retail, commented: "The 'coasting' trend is rapidly growing in popularity in the UK, as demonstrated by the huge rise in searches and sales for mid-strength cocktails, spritzes, wines, and beers on Ocado over the last two years. Many people now embrace mid-strength as the perfect middle ground between no and low and standard options - allowing them to enjoy a lower strength sip without compromising on taste or quality. We are continuing to expand our market-leading range of mid-strength and low alcoholic drinks, allowing our customers to explore more options to suit their lifestyle and drinking choices."
Rise in Seltzers and Shandy Revival
Other mid-strength products are also performing well. Served Peach Hard Seltzer has seen a 78% year-on-year increase on Ocado, and DRTY Mango Passion Vodka Seltzer is up 97% year-on-year. Searches for 'shandy' have risen by 42% month-on-month in 2026, driven by the launch of updated craft versions and modern varieties of this nostalgic classic.
Expert-Crafted Cocktails for Home Enjoyment
To capitalise on the trend, Ocado has collaborated with spirits and cocktail specialist Carmen O'Neal to create three bespoke mid-strength cocktails perfect for summer home entertaining. These recipes include the Ocado Bloom Spritz, Brazilian Lemonade, and Cucumber, Gin & Basil Smash, all ranging from 3% to 5% ABV and adaptable into alcohol-free versions.
Carmen O'Neal said: "Consumers are increasingly seeking drinks that fit a more balanced lifestyle, and mid-strength beverages are becoming a major part of that trend. The rise of spritz culture across social media shows people are looking for refreshing, stylish drinks that don't compromise on experience, and shandies are also making a big comeback this summer. The growth of the mid-strength 'coasting' trend is driving demand for versatile cocktails that work equally well with or without alcohol - or somewhere in the middle."
Carmen's summer cocktail recipes will be featured in the June edition of Ocado Life Magazine, available from May 30.
