Scran

The rise and rise of 'alcohol free'

Scran

Show Notes

On this episode we're looking at going sober - yes it's all around us as Dry January takes hold and whilst it's not for everyone there is no denying it has become more and more popular in recent years.

Rosalind speaks to two entrepreneurs about their alcohol-free businesses to hear more about this growing industry. First up she chats to Sonja Mitchell founder of Jump Ship brewing. A company born of a need for good quality, tasty, alcohol-free beer. Sonja shares how she came to set up the business, the challenges and ire she has faced since then, as well as the huge opportunity she has grabbed and where she plans to go with it next.

Rosalind also spoke to Kate Kenyon, founder of Sobrbar in Aberdeen, the city's first alcohol-free bar. Kate tells her how health challenges led to her giving up alcohol and how that, combined with a distinct lack of social spaces for those who prefer not to drink led to her opening the bar. She too has faced unwarranted criticism but despite this she has found there to be a really positive appetite for the service.

Happy New Year to all Scran listeners! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

More from Scran

Oct 9, 2026

On this very special bonus episode of Scran where we've partnered with World Class to bring you an insight into the upcoming Scotland Served Cocktail Festival as well as the exciting international competition for bartenders that is running alongside it.

Sep 25, 2026

Celebrated chef and restaurateur Yotam Ottolenghi joins Rosalind on this episode of Scran to hear all about his new Edinburgh restaurant. Foodies have eagerly looked forward to its arrival, and Rosalind is keen to learn more about what we can expect.

Sep 11, 2026

We are continuing our celebration of award-winning Scottish food and drink businesses on this episode as we talk to Nick Watkins of El Perro Negro. Winner of multiple best burger awards, Nick stepped into the industry with an idea and determination - more than 10 years later El Perro Negro is still recognised as one of the best burger restaurants not only in the UK, but the world.

Aug 28, 2026

Now into our tenth season we wanted to start the series with something a little different so over the next few episodes we'll be looking a little closer at some of Scotland's award winning food and drink businesses.And as we hold on to the last of summer for dear life what better way to kick off this celebration than to go for ice cream - specifically Equis ice cream in Rutherglen!

Aug 14, 2026

It's that time of year again - festival time! Producer Kelly and Rosalind hit Edinburgh recently to catch some food and drink shows and we were not disappointed.

See all episodes →