“Choosing a non-alcoholic option isn't a less than choice.” —Anika Sawni

The lines between drinkers and non-drinkers are beginning to blur as new options emerge. Where social events were once defined by their alcohol consumption, people now gather for deeper connections unbound by beverage choices.

Gruvi co-founder, Anika Sawni’s vision celebrates the joy of community while empowering individuals to make choices that align with their health, values, and mood. Their growing range of sophisticated yet accessible zero-proof options ensures no one ever feels left out or like a third wheel due to their drinking habits alone.

Listen in as Anika shares her journey launching Gruvi, and their focus on taste, variety, and accessibility when crafting their award-winning non-alcoholic bevies. Justine and Anika also discuss the growing interest in reducing alcohol consumption, what mindful drinking means, and how we can help build an inclusive drinking culture.

Meet Anika:

Anika Sawni is the co-founder and Director of Marketing at Grüvi, a company that produces alcohol-free beverages. She studied neuroscience at McGill University before teaming up with her brother, Niki Sawni, to launch Grüvi.

Anika’s journey with Grüvi began when she noticed the lack of non-alcoholic options at social gatherings. This observation led her to create a healthier alternative that could complement social experiences without adding inebriation.

Grüvi started with a focus on the cannabis community in Denver, and it quickly gained popularity. Today, Grüvi’s products, which include alcohol-free wine and beer, are sold across more than 1,500 stores, including Whole Foods, Total Wine, Target, and the Canadian grocery chain, Sobeys.

In addition to her work with Grüvi, Anika has also served as the VP of Events for McGill Students for DueNORTH from 2016 to 2019. She was named to Forbes’s 30 Under 30 list in its food and beverage category in 2021. Anika’s future aspirations include founding a company focused on brain-based interventions.

Anika Sawni’s work with Grüvi exemplifies her commitment to promoting healthier lifestyle choices and her innovative approach to addressing gaps in the beverage market.

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Episode Highlights:

01:42 Building a Non-Alcoholic Brand

08:49 Working with Family

11:58 Addressing Consumer Barriers

18:45 Shifting Societal Attitude Toward Drinking

22:36 Mindful Drinking Habits

28:02 Focusing on Taste and Accessibility