Have you noticed alcohol popping up everywhere lately? From gas stations and grocery store aisles to VIP movie theatres, it feels like booze has never been more physically accessible. But behind this wall of availability, there is a quiet, powerful shift happening across the country:
Canadians are actually drinking less.
If you’re wondering, “Did Statistics Canada actually do any research reports on this?”—the answer is a resounding yes, and the numbers are fascinating.
Back in 2020 and 2021, during the height of the pandemic lockdowns, StatCan reported that alcohol sales spiked by 4.2%. This is the largest increase in over a decade. We were all stuck at home, routines were upended, and coping mechanisms took over. But fast-forward to today, and the script has completely flipped!
According to recent StatCan data released for the 2024–2025 fiscal year, Canadian per capita alcohol consumption has plummeted to a 20-year low, dropping to an average of just 6.8 litres per person, down from a peak of 8.3 litres at the start of the pandemic. The LCBO is reporting declining sales, and it’s a trend echoing nationwide.
While it’s easy to credit this drop to the strict new alcohol guidelines released by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction in January 2023, the data tells a different story. According to the Statistics Canada report, this marks the fourth consecutive year of declining volume sales, proving Canadians were already making this quiet shift long before the updated recommendations were published.
This drop is being heavily driven by younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, who are leading the change in rejecting traditional drinking culture in favour of health, wellness, and mindful consumption. Demand for complex, craft non-alcoholic beverages is skyrocketing as people realize they don’t have to compromise on taste or the social experience.
GOING OUT: THE RISE OF THE ZERO-PROOF BAR
While alcohol is invading new retail spaces, something much more exciting is popping up: alcohol-free bars and social lounges. We love to see these zero-proof spaces thriving across Canada. If you’re looking for an inclusive vibe without the booze, check out one of these spots for a great night out (and a guaranteed hangover-free morning).
| SPOT | LOCATION | LINKS |
|---|---|---|
| Bevees | 2748 Lougheed Hwy, Port Coquitlam, BC | Website | Instagram |
| SPILT Zero Proof | 11909 Jasper Ave., Edmonton, AB | Website | Instagram |
| Zero Cocktail Bar | 223 Carlton St., Toronto, ON | Website | Instagram |
| Sober Sips Social House | 15 Dunlop St., West, Barrie, ON | Website | Instagram |
| Soberish Mocktail Shoppe & Dry Bar | 2443 Agricola St, Halifax, NS | Website | Instagram |
STAYING IN: WHERE TO SHOP THE BEST NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS
Sometimes the best nights are the ones spent at home (maybe in your comfiest Northern Dry apparel), sipping a zero-proof beverage from the couch. Canadian shops and online retailers are stepping up to deliver the best alcohol-free wines, beers, and spirits right to your door. Shop locally or online at one of the many great options available below.
| SHOP | LOCATION & SHIPPING | LINKS |
|---|---|---|
| Sansorium | Based in BC Canada-wide shipping | Website | Instagram |
| Softer Drink | Based in Victoria, BC Canada-wide shipping | Website | Instagram |
| Soft Crush | Serving AB, SK, MB Ships to all provinces | Website | Instagram |
| Santé Dry Bottle Shop | Local pickup in Calgary, AB Canada-wide shipping | Website | Instagram |
| The Sobr Market | Canada-wide shipping with stores in ON, MB, BC | Website | Instagram |
| Clear Sips | Based in ON Canada-wide shipping | Website | Instagram |
| Upside Drinks | Canada-wide shipping | Website | Instagram |
| Dry Variety | Canada-wide shipping with a store in London, ON | Website | Instagram |
| Sommzero | Based in BC Canada-wide shipping | Website | Instagram |
| Knyota Drinks | Local pickup in Ottawa, ON Province-wide shipping | Website | Instagram |
EMBRACING THE SHIFT
The shift away from alcohol isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a movement towards better health, clearer mornings, and more authentic connections.
At Northern Dry, we’re proud to be part of this community, outfitting you for a lifestyle that celebrates feeling your best.
Danielle
Founder
