What’s it really like to work in the UK drinks industry? Findings from the UK Drinks Industry Culture Survey

Join us on 24 February at 16:00 as we share the findings of the first industry-wide culture survey — based on insights from 680 people across the sector — and discuss what comes next. Register here.

Why workplace culture matters in the UK drinks industry

The UK drinks industry has faced growing questions about safety, inclusion and workplace culture — issues closely linked to workforce wellbeing, retention and the long-term sustainability of the sector. Until recently, however, there has been no shared, independent evidence base to understand the scale or nature of these challenges across the industry.

The UK Drinks Industry Culture Survey

What the UK Drinks Industry Culture Survey set out to understandIn 2025, Drinks United commissioned the first industry-wide culture survey, designed and managed independently to ensure credibility and statistical robustness. With 680 responses from people working across roles, seniority and subsectors, the survey offers the clearest picture to date of lived experience in the UK drinks industry.

By listening directly to workers, the survey highlights where progress is being made — and where experiences of inclusion, safety and support differ across the workforce. The findings point to both risks and opportunities: from safeguarding and trust, to talent retention, engagement and industry resilience.

Crucially, the survey provides a foundation for informed, collective action. Rather than focusing on individual organisations in isolation, it enables the industry to better understand shared challenges and consider practical steps to raise standards together.

What happens next

Drinks United will share the full findings in an open webinar on Tuesday 24 February, alongside a discussion on what constructive, realistic action could look like for individuals, businesses and leaders across the sector.

👉 Register here to attend the webinar and hear the results.