07:00, 05 January 2026
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
Alcohol Change UK has revealed the official partners for the 2026 Dry January® challenge, marking the 14th year of one of the UK’s most influential wellbeing campaigns.
With millions already choosing January as a moment to reset their relationship with alcohol, the new line-up of partners brings fresh energy, flavour and inspiration to a challenge that continues to grow in reach and impact.
At the heart of the 2026 campaign is a shared message that taking a break from alcohol does not mean missing out. Instead, it is about discovery, confidence and finding new ways to enjoy social moments.
Returning for a fifth year as Official Beer of the Dry January® challenge is Lucky Saint, the UK’s number one alcohol-free beer. Joining them once again are Counter Culture Drinks as Official Kombucha and DASH as Official Soft Drink, both now in their second year supporting the campaign.
A new addition for 2026 is Belvoir Farm, which joins as Official Mocktail of the Dry January® challenge. Known for its naturally crafted drinks made with real fruit juices, Belvoir Farm brings a sense of celebration and sophistication to alcohol-free occasions, helping participants enjoy flavourful alternatives throughout the month.
The campaign has also welcomed CHANCE Clean Cider as an Official Brand, alongside Championship football club QPR, online experiences marketplace ClassBento and premium non-alcoholic drinks brand Nekta as Official Supporters. Together, these partners reflect the changing landscape of drinking culture, where choice, quality and wellbeing increasingly take centre stage.
The announcement follows new research from Alcohol Change UK showing that January 2025 saw eight million people attempt a full 31 days without alcohol, with a further 8.8 million choosing to cut down. The figures confirm that the New Year remains a powerful moment for positive change, as people look to improve their health, save money and feel more in control of their habits.
Central to the Dry January® experience is Alcohol Change UK’s award-winning Try Dry® app. Designed to support every kind of motivation, the app allows users to track their alcohol-free streak, monitor improvements in sleep and mood, and see how much money and how many calories they are saving. It also encourages participants to set personal missions, earn badges for alcohol-free social occasions and access exclusive deals from partner brands.
Independent research shows just how effective this support can be. People who take part using the Try Dry® app and daily email journey are twice as likely to complete a completely alcohol-free month compared to those who go it alone. Even more encouraging is the long-term impact, with 70 percent of users reporting that they are still drinking less alcohol six months later.
Danielle Houliston, Executive Director of Income and Engagement at Alcohol Change UK, says the campaign is built around personal empowerment. “Every January, millions of people take a month off alcohol for different reasons. Whether it is about improving mental and physical health, saving money or simply taking back control, the Dry January® challenge and our Try Dry® app are designed to make those goals achievable. With our incredible partners, we want to celebrate the wins, big and small, that people can carry with them long after January ends.”
Other partners echo this sentiment. Counter Culture Drinks describes its involvement as part of a wider mission to reduce alcohol harm while celebrating kombucha as a genuinely enjoyable alternative. DASH highlights the joy of discovery, showing that going dry can still mean great taste and good times. Belvoir Farm adds that flavour and enjoyment should never be compromised, even when alcohol is off the menu.
As Dry January® 2026 comes into view, the campaign continues to challenge outdated norms around drinking and champion a more mindful, flexible approach. With a strong mix of returning favourites and new supporters, and with millions already embracing the idea of a fresh start, the message is clear. A dry start to the year can be positive, empowering and full of possibility.
For more information on how to take part in the 2026 Dry January® challenge and to download the Try Dry® app, visit dryjanuary.org.uk.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Alcohol Change UK. This is the charity behind the world-famous Dry January® challenge. It works to reduce alcohol harm by funding and sharing research, shaping policy, shifting drinking culture and supporting people to take control of their drinking habits. Learn more here.
Faces & Voices of Recovery. This is a leading US charity dedicated to supporting individuals, families and communities affected by alcohol and other substance use disorders. The organisation champions long-term recovery, promotes evidence-based approaches and works to change public attitudes around drinking and addiction. Discover their work here.
Movendi International. A global non-profit organisation working across Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas to prevent alcohol harm and promote sustainable development. By supporting local organisations, advocating for healthier public policies and encouraging alcohol-free lifestyles. Find out more here.
