Laura Willoughby MBE is the founder of the world’s largest mindful drinking movement, Club Soda, and the UK’s foremost expert in low and no alcoholic drinks. Club Soda runs the Low & No Tasting Room in Covent Garden. 

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 niche into the mainstream cannot be underestimated; in addition to organising 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.

As a judge at the London Spirits Competition, Laura brings a unique perspective that celebrates innovation and craftsmanship in low and no-alcohol beverages. Her involvement highlights the competition’s commitment to recognizing brands that cater to evolving consumer preferences and enhance inclusivity within the wine and spirits industry. Laura’s presence on the judging panel ensures that the no-alcohol wines receive the expert evaluation they deserve, helping to set a new benchmark for success in this transformative category.