Adelaide’s trailblazing booze-free bottle shop, ANA Drinks, has announced it will shut its doors next week, succumbing to the pressures of rising operational costs despite a surge in demand for non-alcoholic beverages.
Lisa Fraser, the visionary behind the city’s first dedicated alcohol-free outlet, cited escalating goods, utilities, and wage expenses as insurmountable obstacles, forcing the closure less than two years after its optimistic inception in September 2022.
“Despite the growing demand for non-alcoholic Drinks in Adelaide; the continuous rising costs of goods, utilities and wages over the last 12 months has made it incredibly hard to operate our business sustainably” Lisa said in an Instagram post.
Situated on Hutt Street, ANA Drinks emerged as a pioneer in offering an array of non-alcoholic options, from beers and wines to cocktails, catering to a growing trend among Australians seeking healthier lifestyle choices. Fraser’s ambition was to change the drinking culture, providing alternatives that didn’t compromise on the social experience of enjoying a drink.
The closure of ANA Drinks is reflective of a broader trend affecting the SA hospitality industry, with several establishments across the state, including well-known venues like Cardone’s and Little Banksia Tree, also closing their doors in recent months.
“Cost of living also plays a significant role as many of us are keeping a closer eye on our personal budgets. The trading conditions are very challenging for everyone at the moment and we unfortunately are not immune.”
The hospitality sector is reeling under the dual pressures of increased costs and reduced patronage, with the owner of Rusco & Brusco warning of potential closure due to halved trade and soaring expenses.
The concept for ANA Drinks was sparked by Fraser’s personal quest for non-alcoholic beverages following a heavy festive season in 2021. Recognising the quality and variety available, she saw an opportunity to cater to those seeking a “mixed approach” to drinking. Fraser’s vision was to destigmatize non-drinking at social occasions, offering sophisticated alternatives to traditional soft drinks.
In its final days, ANA Drinks will offer discounts on its remaining stock, and Fraser plans to guide customers on where to find their favorite non-alcoholic drinks locally. This closing marks the end of a pioneering venture that aimed to redefine Adelaide’s drinking scene but also highlights the ongoing challenges facing small businesses in the current economic climate.
“If you can come down and support us one last time over this week and next it would mean the world to Manasi & I to see you and say goodbye.” she said.
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