The Rise of Alcohol-Free Spirits and Supermarket Solidarity Against Hunger
May 20, 2025, 10:03 am
Location: United Kingdom, England, Bracknell
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1904
Location: United Kingdom, England, Welwyn Garden City
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1919
Total raised: $61.21K
In a world where choices shape lifestyles, two significant trends are emerging: the rise of alcohol-free spirits and a united front against hunger. These movements reflect a shift in consumer preferences and a growing awareness of social responsibility.
Ben Stokes, the cricketing sensation, has stepped into the spotlight, not just for his athletic prowess but as a savvy investor. He has taken a stake in Cleanco, an alcohol-free spirits brand founded by reality TV star Spencer Matthews. This partnership comes amid a $5 million fundraising round aimed at propelling Cleanco into a new era of growth. The brand is not just another player in the market; it’s a contender in a booming sector worth $13 billion globally.
The alcohol-free segment is the fastest-growing part of the beverage industry, outpacing traditional beer and wine with an astonishing 86% annual growth rate. This shift is not merely a trend; it’s a revolution. Consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives that allow them to enjoy social occasions without the effects of alcohol. Cleanco embodies this ethos with its mantra, “Life Less Wasted.”
Stokes’ involvement is a game-changer. His stature as a sports icon lends credibility to Cleanco, signaling that alcohol-free options are not just for the health-conscious but for everyone. The brand offers a range of non-alcoholic alternatives, including gin, rum, vodka, whiskey, and tequila. In 2024 alone, Cleanco served up 8.8 million “Clean Cocktails,” marking its significant presence in the market.
As Cleanco prepares for global expansion, it faces competition from established giants like Diageo-owned Seedlip and Ritual. Yet, the momentum is on its side. With major retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose stocking its products, Cleanco is poised to become a household name. The recent launch of its 0.0% tequila, dubbed Clean T, further solidifies its commitment to innovation in the alcohol-free space.
Meanwhile, the food industry is rallying together to tackle hunger, a pressing issue that affects millions. In response to a challenge from the King of the United Kingdom, four major supermarkets—Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, and Waitrose—have launched the “Let’s Make A Meal Of It” campaign. This initiative encourages customers to donate to FareShare, a charity dedicated to redistributing surplus food to those in need.
The campaign is a direct response to the staggering 4.6 million tonnes of food wasted in the UK each year. By encouraging customers to round up their bills or donate online, the supermarkets aim to bridge the gap between food waste and hunger. Every pound raised will provide five meals for individuals facing food insecurity. This is not just charity; it’s a lifeline for children receiving hot meals during school holidays and for those experiencing loneliness who can share meals in community settings.
The Alliance Food Sourcing group, formed as part of this initiative, is working to reduce food waste at every stage of the supply chain. They are turning vegetable off-cuts into soups and repackaging leftover pasta sauce for community kitchens. This innovative approach not only addresses hunger but also promotes sustainability.
The collaboration among these supermarkets is a breakthrough for the UK food industry. It demonstrates that when businesses unite for a common cause, they can create real change. Each supermarket’s commitment to tackling food poverty and waste is commendable. It shows that corporate responsibility can extend beyond profit margins.
As the alcohol-free spirits market continues to grow, it reflects a broader cultural shift towards moderation and mindfulness. Consumers are becoming more conscious of their choices, seeking products that align with their values. Stokes’ investment in Cleanco is a testament to this trend. It signals that even high-profile athletes are recognizing the importance of health and well-being.
The dual narratives of Cleanco’s rise and the supermarkets’ campaign against hunger highlight a significant moment in consumer culture. People are not just looking for products; they are seeking purpose. They want brands that resonate with their values and contribute positively to society.
In conclusion, the intersection of alcohol-free spirits and the fight against hunger illustrates a changing landscape. Ben Stokes’ partnership with Cleanco is a bold move that reflects the growing demand for healthier lifestyle choices. Simultaneously, the supermarket coalition against hunger showcases the power of collaboration in addressing societal issues. Together, these movements are reshaping the way we think about consumption and community. As we move forward, the emphasis on health, sustainability, and social responsibility will only grow stronger. The future is bright for those who choose to embrace it.
Ben Stokes, the cricketing sensation, has stepped into the spotlight, not just for his athletic prowess but as a savvy investor. He has taken a stake in Cleanco, an alcohol-free spirits brand founded by reality TV star Spencer Matthews. This partnership comes amid a $5 million fundraising round aimed at propelling Cleanco into a new era of growth. The brand is not just another player in the market; it’s a contender in a booming sector worth $13 billion globally.
The alcohol-free segment is the fastest-growing part of the beverage industry, outpacing traditional beer and wine with an astonishing 86% annual growth rate. This shift is not merely a trend; it’s a revolution. Consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives that allow them to enjoy social occasions without the effects of alcohol. Cleanco embodies this ethos with its mantra, “Life Less Wasted.”
Stokes’ involvement is a game-changer. His stature as a sports icon lends credibility to Cleanco, signaling that alcohol-free options are not just for the health-conscious but for everyone. The brand offers a range of non-alcoholic alternatives, including gin, rum, vodka, whiskey, and tequila. In 2024 alone, Cleanco served up 8.8 million “Clean Cocktails,” marking its significant presence in the market.
As Cleanco prepares for global expansion, it faces competition from established giants like Diageo-owned Seedlip and Ritual. Yet, the momentum is on its side. With major retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose stocking its products, Cleanco is poised to become a household name. The recent launch of its 0.0% tequila, dubbed Clean T, further solidifies its commitment to innovation in the alcohol-free space.
Meanwhile, the food industry is rallying together to tackle hunger, a pressing issue that affects millions. In response to a challenge from the King of the United Kingdom, four major supermarkets—Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, and Waitrose—have launched the “Let’s Make A Meal Of It” campaign. This initiative encourages customers to donate to FareShare, a charity dedicated to redistributing surplus food to those in need.
The campaign is a direct response to the staggering 4.6 million tonnes of food wasted in the UK each year. By encouraging customers to round up their bills or donate online, the supermarkets aim to bridge the gap between food waste and hunger. Every pound raised will provide five meals for individuals facing food insecurity. This is not just charity; it’s a lifeline for children receiving hot meals during school holidays and for those experiencing loneliness who can share meals in community settings.
The Alliance Food Sourcing group, formed as part of this initiative, is working to reduce food waste at every stage of the supply chain. They are turning vegetable off-cuts into soups and repackaging leftover pasta sauce for community kitchens. This innovative approach not only addresses hunger but also promotes sustainability.
The collaboration among these supermarkets is a breakthrough for the UK food industry. It demonstrates that when businesses unite for a common cause, they can create real change. Each supermarket’s commitment to tackling food poverty and waste is commendable. It shows that corporate responsibility can extend beyond profit margins.
As the alcohol-free spirits market continues to grow, it reflects a broader cultural shift towards moderation and mindfulness. Consumers are becoming more conscious of their choices, seeking products that align with their values. Stokes’ investment in Cleanco is a testament to this trend. It signals that even high-profile athletes are recognizing the importance of health and well-being.
The dual narratives of Cleanco’s rise and the supermarkets’ campaign against hunger highlight a significant moment in consumer culture. People are not just looking for products; they are seeking purpose. They want brands that resonate with their values and contribute positively to society.
In conclusion, the intersection of alcohol-free spirits and the fight against hunger illustrates a changing landscape. Ben Stokes’ partnership with Cleanco is a bold move that reflects the growing demand for healthier lifestyle choices. Simultaneously, the supermarket coalition against hunger showcases the power of collaboration in addressing societal issues. Together, these movements are reshaping the way we think about consumption and community. As we move forward, the emphasis on health, sustainability, and social responsibility will only grow stronger. The future is bright for those who choose to embrace it.