Non-alcoholic beverages in France - statistics & facts
At the end of 2023, the French Parliament decided to increase efforts in the fight against obesity with two new amendments to the “soda tax”, first implemented in 2012. While this policy has been controversial among manufacturers, it has been praised by health advocates and contributed to a slight decline in sugary drink consumption nationwide. While consumption did decrease after 2018, it grew again in 2022, making the actual effects of the government’s regulation still unclear.
Popular brands such as Coca-Cola, Fanta, or Pepsi dominate store shelves. These manufacturers are increasingly looking to offer both traditional and sugar-free options to cater to health-conscious consumers.
Major industry players like Heineken or Desperados have launched alternatives to their most popular products in a bid to secure a spot on the market. Compared to other countries, France’s market for non-alcoholic alternatives remains smaller but is, nonetheless, dynamic.
Overall, the French non-alcoholic beverage market should continue to expand, driven by both local and international brands. Additionally, the government’s continued taxation on high-sugar drinks as well as consumers’ interest in health-conscious trends and drinking habits can be expected to strengthen the market.
The growing thirst for non-alcoholic drinks in France
While France is globally famous for its wine culture, the soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverage sector is experiencing significant growth. The non-alcoholic beverage market in France is expected to exceed 17.24 billion U.S. dollars by 2028, with soft drinks being the leading segment by far. Carbonated soft drinks make up the largest part of the segment mentioned above, with sales showing no sign of decline in the coming years. However, French soda consumption per capita remains lower than in countries like the United States.Popular brands such as Coca-Cola, Fanta, or Pepsi dominate store shelves. These manufacturers are increasingly looking to offer both traditional and sugar-free options to cater to health-conscious consumers.
Health trends and competition with alcoholic beverages
As health awareness grows, so does the market for non-alcoholic beverages in parallel with a decline in alcohol consumption. Indeed, France is seeing a steady reduction in alcohol intake. Consumers are instead turning to soft drinks, but also mocktails or low-alcohol/ non-alcoholic beer.Major industry players like Heineken or Desperados have launched alternatives to their most popular products in a bid to secure a spot on the market. Compared to other countries, France’s market for non-alcoholic alternatives remains smaller but is, nonetheless, dynamic.
Overall, the French non-alcoholic beverage market should continue to expand, driven by both local and international brands. Additionally, the government’s continued taxation on high-sugar drinks as well as consumers’ interest in health-conscious trends and drinking habits can be expected to strengthen the market.
