IWSC adds new ‘No & Low’ category to 2026 Emerging Talent Awards

In a move that mirrors the explosive growth of the alcohol-free sector, the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) has announced the addition of a dedicated No & Low category to its prestigious 2026 Emerging Talent Awards.

The awards, which officially open for entries on January 26, 2026, are designed to spotlight the next generation of industry leaders who are moving the needle in spirits, wine, and hospitality. The introduction of the No & Low category marks the first time the IWSC has created a specific "Talent" trophy for the alcohol-free movement, recognizing its shift from a niche alternative to a mainstream powerhouse.

Spotlighting the pioneers of sobriety

The "Emerging Talent in No & Low" award is open to individuals at the early stages of their careers who are contributing fresh ideas to the sector. This includes brand builders, product developers, educators, advocates, and content creators who are helping to redefine social drinking culture.

As with other categories, the winner of the No & Low award will receive a £2,500 bursary to support their professional development. Additionally, the winner will receive a complimentary ticket to the Club Soda UK Summit in October, provided by the award's partners at Club Soda.

“As the category continues to gain momentum and quality rises year on year, now is the perfect moment to recognize the rising stars who are redefining what's possible in this space,” the IWSC stated in their announcement.

The 2026 Emerging Talent categories

The No & Low trophy joins an expanded roster of awards for 2026, which include:

• Wine & Spirits Communication: for journalists, educators, and content creators.
• Wine & Spirits Business: for professionals working behind the scenes in marketing, sales, and supply chain.
• Bartending & Wine Hospitality: celebrating excellence in service and consumer engagement.

Key deadlines for aspiring leaders

The IWSC emphasises that "Emerging Talent" is not defined by age, but by how new an individual is to the industry – making it accessible to career-changers as well as starting their professional journey.

• Entries Open: January 26, 2026
• Entries Close: February 23, 2026
• Winners Announced: Spring 2026

For food and drink manufacturers and brand owners, this new category offers a significant platform for internal rising stars to gain international recognition and for the industry at large to identify the voices shaping the future of the "mindful drinking" era.

Photo: Spotlighting the next generation of drinks industry leaders – including a brand new No & Low category