New research from Coca-Cola has revealed a noticeable shift in how young people in the UK are choosing to spend time together. According to the study, more than half (54%) of 18–29-year-olds are now actively seeking social plans that don’t revolve around alcohol, signalling a broader cultural move toward mindful socialising.
This trend reflects a growing appetite for more relaxed, intentional meet-ups. Over half (53%) of respondents said they prefer daytime or early evening plans, while one in three would choose afternoon tea with friends over a traditional night out.
Cost and Connection Driving the Shift
Affordability continues to play a major role in shaping social habits, with 78% of young people citing cost as a key factor in their decision-making. But it’s not just about saving money — it’s also about how people feel during these experiences.
Nearly half (48%) said that more casual settings, such as shopping trips, food experiences, or pop-up events, help them feel more present and engaged. Popular activities include shopping (52%), trying new food and drink spots (47%), and visiting themed events (24%).
Inside the Cherry Coke Café Pop-Up in Soho
To bring these findings to life, Coca-Cola launched the Cherry Coke Café, a limited-time pop-up in Soho. Running from 17–19 April, the immersive experience welcomed over 2,000 guests across three days.
The café reimagined the traditional British tearoom with a playful, modern twist. Guests were treated to a cherry-inspired afternoon tea, served on classic tiered stands, with each item offering a bold reinterpretation of familiar favourites.
Alongside the menu, visitors could explore interactive installations, games, and photo opportunities, all while sampling the full Coca-Cola Cherry range.
A Nostalgic Twist for the “Spin Generation”
The event was designed with what Coca-Cola describes as the “spin generation” in mind — a cohort of Gen Z consumers who enjoy reinventing nostalgic trends. In fact, 86% of those surveyed said they like putting their own spin on past experiences, while 52% find modern takes on nostalgia more appealing than either traditional formats or entirely new ideas.
Guests were also invited to “Pick Your Cherry Favourite,” tasting options like Coca-Cola Cherry, Diet Coke Cherry, and the new Coca-Cola Cherry Float — a blend of cherry flavour with smooth vanilla notes inspired by classic soda floats.
The experience was hosted by Maura Higgins, who guided visitors through the interactive journey.
Recreating the Experience at Home
For those who missed the pop-up, Coca-Cola’s Cherry range — including Coca-Cola Cherry Float and Coca-Cola Cherry Float Zero Sugar — is now available nationwide through major retailers.
You can explore more about Coca-Cola’s latest product innovations on the Coca-Cola website.
The Bigger Picture
This shift toward alcohol-free, daytime socialising highlights a generational change in priorities. Today’s young consumers are seeking experiences that feel authentic, affordable, and engaging — whether that’s a themed café pop-up or a simple afternoon tea with friends.
As brands continue to tap into this trend, expect to see more nostalgic reinventions and immersive experiences shaping the future of social culture.
