University of Bradford replaces bar with alcohol-free cafe

A university has transformed one of its student union bars into an alcohol-free social space in response to changing student habits.

The University of Bradford has replaced pints and pitchers with hot drinks, bubble tea and smoothies at its new cafe, Brew and Co Kitchen.

Research published by the charity Drinkaware in 2022 found that 26% of 16-24 year-olds did not drink – the highest percentage of any age group.

A university spokesperson said student life was “quite different to years ago” and it had “acted on what students wanted in order to be more inclusive”.

A bar serving alcohol has been retained in the basement of the students’ union building and alcohol-free “mocktails” will be available.

Aleem Bashir, CEO of University of Bradford Union of Students, said students today had less money to spend on going out.

“A lot of students now have part-time jobs, some may have multiple jobs. When you have to wake up early morning for a shift you can’t be going in there hungover,” he said.

“It’s about diversifying the offering for students now and just making the options of non-alcoholic drinks available to them.”

One of the features of the “phenomenal” new space was a games area, he added.

It also has many traditional bar features, including large TV screens for watching sport, a dancefloor, darts, pool and shuffleboard.

It comes as a night-time economy conference held in Yorkshire was told businesses need to start offering more for young people who do not drink alcohol.

Other factors in younger generations turning away from alcohol that have been cited include an increased awareness of health risks, the impact of social media and the higher cost of a night out.

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