Waitrose makes major change in stores across the UK

There will be 60 per cent more space allocated to these drinks as demand soars. The change will be rolled out in 253 stores across the country.

Waitrose noted 99 per cent of UK shoppers buy alcohol free drinks, with almost half of UK adults switching between alcoholic and alcohol free drinks.

Master of Wine, and Head of Beers, Wines and Spirits at Waitrose Pierpaolo Petrassi said: “Demand for low-alcohol and alcohol-free drinks is growing at a phenomenal rate. It’s now the norm for customers to buy both.

"We expect this year to be the biggest year to date for sales and are preparing for strong demand at Christmas.

“The growth is down to our customers wanting to moderate their alcohol consumption, but is also heavily driven by the creation of new, great quality new drinks such as Guinness 0.0, Tanqueray 0.0 and Gordon's Pink 0.0.

"We’ve added 10 new low and alcohol-free products this year and will launch more before Christmas.”

Waitrose has launched a new food deal to rival competitors like Tesco, Sainsbury's and Asda.

For the first time, shoppers will be able to pick up a lunch time meal deal.

Like deals in the likes of Tesco and Sainsbury's, shoppers will be able to pick up a main, snack and drink.

The option is slightly pricier than the similar deals at other supermarkets, which are typically less than £4.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• Tesco recalls chilled foods as they may contain metal and plastic - full list
• Asda, Sainsbury's and Morrisons recall pains au chocolat over mould risk
• Tesco makes major change to household staple item in all its stores

Those taking advantage of the deal will be able to pick from mains such as sandwiches, sushi, salads and more.

Standard snacks such as crisps, sweets and cereal bars will be available, and there will be a range of cold drinks on offer.

The contents of the deal focus on quality, according to Waitrose, and fresh and varied products will be available.

Food-to-go buyer at Waitrose Jennifer Moscardini said: "This lunchtime deal means our customers can get a great quality sandwich, wrap, salad or sushi, along with a snack and a drink for £5.

"We're always innovating to keep up with food trends. This week we've introduced a great vegan BLT sandwich for people who want to eat less meat, or none at all."