Introducing CANAR: A New National Alliance Supporting Canada’s Zero-Proof Retail Industry
The Canadian non-alcoholic beverage landscape has officially reached a new milestone.
On December 10, 2025, the Canadian Alliance of Non-Alcoholic Retailers (CANAR) officially launched as a national organization uniting Canada’s leading non-alcoholic bottle shops and specialty retailers. Formed in response to the rapid growth of the mindful-drinking movement, CANAR exists to strengthen the zero-proof retail sector while expanding meaningful, high-quality choice for consumers across the country.
A Collaborative Vision for Canada’s Zero-Proof Future
At its core, CANAR is built on collaboration.
By bringing together independent retailers from coast to coast, the alliance aims to create a trusted national network committed to quality, integrity, and inclusivity. As the non-alcoholic category continues to evolve, CANAR members are working collectively to help set a higher standard for Canada’s zero-proof industry — one that benefits consumers, suppliers, and communities alike.
Through shared knowledge and cooperation, members will:
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Advocate for responsible industry practices
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Strengthen relationships with producers and suppliers
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Support fair, transparent pricing models
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Promote long-term sustainability within the non-alcoholic marketplace
Responding to a Growing Cultural Movement
What was once a niche category has quickly grown into a cultural shift.
“Canada’s non-alcoholic beverage landscape has transformed from a niche category to a vibrant cultural movement,” CANAR representatives shared. “Today’s consumers expect exceptional, high-quality options — and responsible retailers share a responsibility to meet that demand with expertise, ethics, and consistency.”
As consumer interest in mindful drinking continues to rise, CANAR recognizes the importance of knowledgeable, values-driven retail leadership in shaping how the category grows.
Shared Values, Shared Responsibility
Like any emerging industry, non-alcoholic retail faces its share of growing pains. CANAR members are committed to addressing these challenges together, guided by a set of shared values that reinforce trust across the entire ecosystem — from producer to retailer to consumer.
These values include:
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Trust
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Integrity
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Product Expertise
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Consumer Education
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Ethical Business Practices
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Community Health & Well-Being
By aligning around these principles, CANAR aims to foster a healthier, more transparent, and more resilient non-alcoholic retail landscape in Canada.
What’s Next for CANAR
With its official launch, CANAR establishes a cohesive national voice for Canada’s non-alcoholic retail sector. Looking ahead, the alliance plans to support future initiatives such as:
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Industry standards and best practices
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Consumer education and awareness campaigns
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Collaborative events that celebrate mindful drinking nationwide
As the zero-proof movement continues to gain momentum, CANAR’s goal is simple: to help ensure the category grows thoughtfully, responsibly, and with integrity at its foundation.
About CANAR
The Canadian Alliance of Non-Alcoholic Retailers (CANAR) is a national collective of non-alcoholic bottle shops and specialized retailers dedicated to elevating the quality, accessibility, and integrity of the zero-proof marketplace in Canada.
For updates and industry news, CANAR can be found on LinkedIn.
A Note from Dry Variety
At Dry Variety, we believe the future of social drinking is thoughtful, inclusive, and grounded in quality. Being part of a collaborative network like CANAR reflects our commitment to elevating the non-alcoholic experience and supporting a transparent, values-driven industry. We’re proud to stand alongside like-minded retailers as the zero-proof category continues to grow and evolve in Canada.
