In a bold move signaling the shifting tides of the global beverage market, luxury conglomerate LVMH has taken its first steps into the non-alcoholic drinks industry by acquiring a 30% stake in French Bloom, a fast-growing maker of premium non-alcoholic sparkling wines. This strategic investment highlights the growing appeal of alcohol-free options, even in the world of high-end, luxury beverages.
The Rise of French Bloom
Founded in 2021 by Constance Jablonski, a supermodel, and Marguerite de Cabrol, an entrepreneur, French Bloom has quickly become one of the most recognized names in the premium non-alcoholic wine space. The brand’s sleek marketing, commitment to sustainability, and focus on quality have propelled it to prominence. In just four years, the company is projected to produce 500,000 bottles annually, with retail prices ranging from $39 for a sparkling white to $119 for a limited-edition vintage.
Unlike many other non-alcoholic wine brands, French Bloom has positioned itself firmly in the luxury category. The wines are crafted from premium organic grapes and undergo a proprietary cold-vacuum distillation process to remove the alcohol while preserving the complexity of flavors. The result is a beverage that not only mimics the sophistication of traditional sparkling wine but also stands as a unique, health-conscious indulgence.
LVMH’s Vision for Non-Alcoholic Luxury
LVMH’s investment in French Bloom is significant not just for its financial implications but also for what it represents: a shift in how luxury consumers perceive and value non-alcoholic options. Historically, alcohol-free beverages have been relegated to the realm of functional or dietary choices, but French Bloom—and now LVMH—seeks to redefine them as aspirational lifestyle products.
The timing of this move is far from coincidental. The low- and no-alcohol beverage category has grown exponentially in recent years, driven by health-conscious Millennials and Gen Z consumers who are reshaping global drinking habits. According to industry reports, the no-alcohol wine market alone is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 10% through 2030, fueled by increased demand for healthier and more inclusive alternatives.
Jean-Marc Gallot, President of Moët Hennessy, LVMH’s wine and spirits division, described the partnership as a reflection of changing times:
“We are witnessing a cultural evolution where luxury is no longer synonymous with excess. Today’s consumers want sophistication without compromise, and non-alcoholic options like French Bloom embody that ideal.”
The Appeal of Premium Non-Alcoholic Wines
What sets French Bloom—and other high-end alcohol-free wines—apart from their mass-market counterparts is their focus on craftsmanship. Each bottle is treated with the same reverence as traditional sparkling wine, from the selection of organic grapes to the painstaking process of removing alcohol while preserving texture, mouthfeel, and flavor.
For health-conscious consumers, French Bloom offers a guilt-free indulgence. It is free from artificial sweeteners, low in calories, and, unlike many non-alcoholic beverages, designed for celebratory occasions. French Bloom’s founders have emphasized that their mission is to create a product that doesn’t feel like a compromise but an elevation.
A Changing Market
LVMH’s decision to invest in French Bloom is emblematic of a broader trend in the beverage industry: inclusivity. The days of non-drinkers feeling left out at social gatherings are fading, as more high-quality alcohol-free options become available. From corporate events to weddings and fine-dining establishments, non-alcoholic wines are carving out their own space, offering everyone a seat at the table.
Moreover, the environmental and health benefits of alcohol-free wine are adding to its appeal. Producing de-alcoholised wine often requires fewer resources, making it a more sustainable choice compared to traditional winemaking. This aligns with LVMH’s broader sustainability goals, as the company seeks to balance profitability with environmental responsibility.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the enthusiasm, the non-alcoholic wine industry faces significant hurdles. The process of crafting alcohol-free wine that can rival the complexity and richness of traditional wines remains a challenge. Many consumers are still skeptical of non-alcoholic options, associating them with a lack of quality or depth.
However, with brands like French Bloom pushing boundaries and gaining traction, perceptions are beginning to shift. LVMH’s involvement is expected to accelerate this change, as the conglomerate brings its resources, expertise, and distribution network to bear. French Bloom will not only gain access to LVMH’s global retail channels but also benefit from its decades of experience in crafting luxury experiences.
A New Era for Luxury Beverages
The partnership between LVMH and French Bloom is a watershed moment for the beverage industry. It signals that non-alcoholic options are no longer niche products but integral to the future of luxury consumption. This evolution is not just about abstinence but about redefining what it means to indulge.
For French Bloom, the future is bright. The company is already exploring new product lines and expanding its reach into international markets, particularly in the United States and Asia. With LVMH’s backing, it is poised to lead the charge in a growing segment that combines health-conscious choices with aspirational living.
Conclusion
As the world’s largest luxury goods conglomerate, LVMH’s entry into the non-alcoholic wine space sends a clear message: the era of booze-free luxury is here. By investing in French Bloom, LVMH is not only betting on the future of alcohol-free beverages but also reshaping the narrative around them. Non-alcoholic wines are no longer alternatives—they are center stage, offering a sophisticated, inclusive, and sustainable way to celebrate life’s moments.
In the words of Marguerite de Cabrol, co-founder of French Bloom:
“Luxury isn’t about exclusion; it’s about inclusion. It’s about creating something that allows everyone to raise a glass and toast to life.”
As the category continues to grow, it is clear that French Bloom and LVMH are leading a revolution—one glass of booze-free bubbles at a time.