The London Spirits Competition, one of the most prestigious global competitions for spirits, is proud to announce that Laura Willoughby MBE, a trailblazer in the low and no-alcohol drinks category, has joined the esteemed judging panel for its upcoming edition. Laura, the visionary founder of Club Soda, a pioneering force behind the Mindful Drinking Movement, brings unparalleled expertise to the competition’s growing focus on no-alcohol spirits.

With a mission to transform the drinking culture and promote mindful consumption, Laura has been instrumental in elevating the low and no-alcohol drinks sector to new heights. As a buyer of low and no-alcoholic drinks and the driving force behind Club Soda, she has been a relentless advocate for innovation and quality in this burgeoning market. Her leadership in curating exceptional no-alcohol beverage experiences has earned her national recognition, including an MBE for services to charity and social enterprise.

The London Spirits Competition evaluates spirits based on three key criteria: quality, value, and packaging—ensuring products resonate with both trade buyers and consumers. With Laura’s expertise, the competition will further champion the evolving no-alcohol spirits category, spotlighting brands that deliver exceptional taste and creativity in this space.

Sid Patel, CEO of the Beverage Trade Network and organizer of the competition, expressed his enthusiasm:

“Laura Willoughby’s influence on the no-alcohol sector is unparalleled. Her passion for redefining drinking culture and her discerning palate make her an invaluable addition to our judging panel. We are excited to see how her expertise will elevate the evaluation of no-alcohol spirits at this year’s competition.”

As part of her role, Laura will collaborate with an elite panel of industry professionals, including master distillers, bar managers, and drinks buyers, to assess entries in the no-alcohol spirits category. Her involvement underscores the competition's commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence across all spectrums of the spirits industry.

The 2025 London Spirits Competition will take place in March, with winners set to gain coveted recognition and valuable exposure among trade buyers, distributors, and consumers.

About Laura Willoughby MBE

Laura Willoughby MBE is the founder of Club Soda, a global leader in the Mindful Drinking Movement. Dedicated to changing perceptions around alcohol consumption, Club Soda offers resources, events, and an online shop featuring curated low and no-alcohol drinks. Laura’s passion for mindful living and her innovative approach to the drinks industry has made her a leading voice in this growing category.

Laura was named number 11 in 2024’s Drinks Retailing’s latest Top 100 Most Influential People in Drink and one of the 100 most influential women in hospitality by CODE. The Club Soda Tasting Room was Drink Retailing’s Independent Retailer of the Year 2023. She is a Drink Doctor for The Caterer, an Imbibe Ambassador, and a judge for WAFA, IWSC, Great British Food Awards, Global Drinks Intel ESG Awards and Publican of the Year. Laura is a Trustee for The Drinks Trust and Equal Measures.

Receiving an MBE for services to the community in 2004, Laura’s devotion to Club Soda means hundreds of thousands of people are supported in their journeys to live well by being more mindful about drinking alcohol.

Laura’s part in the transformation of the non-alcoholic drinks sector in the UK from a niche into the mainstream cannot be underestimated; in addition to organizing 10 editions of the Mindful Drinking Festival nationwide, her work also includes developing education courses, conducting research, and generating guides to Low & No alcoholic drinks.

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About the London Spirits Competition

The London Spirits Competition sets a new benchmark for evaluating spirits, focusing on what truly matters to consumers: quality, value, and packaging. Organized by the Beverage Trade Network, the competition attracts entries from across the globe, helping brands build recognition and reach within the competitive spirits market.

Also Read:
No & Low Alcoholic Beverages Entries Now Open For London Wine, Beer and Spirits Competitions
The Rise and Rise of Mindful Drinking: Non-Alcoholic Beverages Take Center Stage
Top Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Refresh Your Summer: London Spirits Competition Winners 2024