Narmeen Kamran , events producer and director , Desert Island Events , asks a collection of eventprofs why serving non-alcoholic beverages at events forms part of DEI strategy

t any good event , they will ask you for your dietary requirements to make sure they are catering for everyone . What we consume is our choice , whether it be for health or personal reasons , we expect a level of respect and understanding . Whilst this may be true for food , this does not carry over into drinks .

Diversity , equity and inclusion are important factors not just in this industry , but for everyone – as this has a direct impact on people .

I first realised the importance of alcohol free ( AF ) beverages and the lack of options at events when I quit drinking in October 2021 . I found it easy as I knew people that didn ’ t drink or had also recently quit . There were also readily available alternatives on the market .

The problem came with events , they had no alternatives and some only had water or orange juice . This was an industry

Narmeen Kamran

wide issue ; AF eventprofs are a large and growing demographic , and they are not catered for in the industry .

I spoke to a broad range of industry professionals , from planners to venues and caterers , about the impact and importance of AF events , what they are currently doing and what trends they predict for the future .

Inclusive taste matching Overall , the panel of eventprofs believe serving AF beverages is a must . “ It ’ s extremely important to ensure we are being fully inclusive at our events . It shows we do care and are doing the walk , not just the talk ,” says Kate Bullard , events manager ,

Baker McKenzie .

Tina Northover , founder and impact entrepreneur , Potent Sapiens , agrees with Bullard and says : “ I want more AF options so that I feel like a valued attendee , rather than an outsider . I also think having a more appealing variety of AF drinks would encourage those who are sober curious to try something non-alcoholic . It also supports with networking , as not drinking is more conducive to authentic connections .”

Despite this stance , Northover stresses that it ’ s ultimately down to preference : “ Whilst I choose not to drink , I don ’ t have an issue with other people drinking . Everyone can make their own choice .”

But what exactly are clients looking for when it comes to non-alcoholic beverages ?

“ They are looking for better alternatives , like sparkling for the welcome reception ,” says Priya Narain , event sales manager , KERB Events . “ Clients want non-alcoholic cocktails ( mocktails ) and non-alcoholic wine options too ,” says Taylor Coulson , general manager , The Zebra Riding Club . “ We are also being asked for non-alcoholic beer ,” adds Stephan Trockle , co-founder , Lumiere London .

Cressida Lawlor , bar supervisor , Sexy Fish , has also seen the same requests and explains why : “ AF drinks is something I hear from guests mainly in the daytime , but

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