Gin and tonic surpasses tea as Britain’s favourite drink amid shifting consumer preferences

Gin and tonic has overtaken tea as the nation’s favourite drink, marking a significant shift in British consumer habits.

A recent survey conducted as part of the sixth annual Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report found that 44% of Britons now opt for a G&T when meeting friends, narrowly surpassing the 41% who prefer a traditional cup of tea. The remaining 15% were undecided between the two quintessentially British beverages.

The UK’s gin market continues to flourish, reinforcing its position as the world’s largest. Last year, gin sales reached £750 million, reflecting a sustained enthusiasm for the spirit that dates back to the 17th century. This contrasts sharply with the declining tea market, where sales of everyday black tea brands like PG Tips and Yorkshire Tea fell by 6% in 2022 to £341 million. Research firm Mintel forecasts an additional 8% decline between 2023 and 2028.

The changing tide in beverage preferences is further evidenced by the struggles of Britain’s oldest tea brand, Typhoo Tea, which recently entered administration due to over £70 million in debt and waning demand. Meanwhile, the rise of “cocktail culture” is gaining momentum, especially among younger consumers. Nearly half of Gen Z respondents—those aged 18 to 29—expressed a preference for celebrating special occasions with a cocktail instead of Champagne. Additionally, 35% are more likely to choose a cocktail over beer, and 29% over wine compared to last year.

Davide Zanardo of Bacardi UK & Ireland noted: “The G&T tops our poll for 2025, so perhaps it’s not surprising it’s now rivalling the cup of tea as the country’s national drink.”

This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses in the beverage industry. While traditional tea brands face declining sales, the spirits sector is poised for growth as consumer tastes evolve. The preference for gin and tonic, along with other cocktails like piña coladas and mojitos, signals a changing landscape that companies will need to navigate carefully