Aberdeen’s SOBR Bar has been named a Trailblazer in the Low & No Alcohol Category at the UK Enterprise Awards 2026, adding to a growing list of industry nods for the city’s pioneering zero-alcohol venue.
The latest recognition comes after shortlistings in two major licensed trade awards: the UK’s Great British Pub Awards 2026 and DRAM Magazine’s Awards, where SOBR was named one of the country’s Best Low & No Destinations.
Launched by SME News, the UK Enterprise Awards celebrate ambition, resilience and standout achievement across the country’s business landscape. The awards recognise everything from family-run firms and fast-growing start-ups to more established SMEs setting new benchmarks across a wide range of sectors.
For SOBR owner Kate Kenyon, the award marks a significant milestone for a business that only opened last October.
“As a small business trying something completely new in the city, and country, this recognition means the world to us. To be named a trailblazer in any field is a real compliment,” she said.
“We’re currently the only zero bar and events space in Scotland, although there are a few others across the UK. It’s a concept that is now growing fast, with huge potential.”
She added that the venue’s early success has underlined demand for a more inclusive approach to a night out.
“We have proved in just nine months of opening that there is a real need for a safe and inclusive place like SOBR, where you can enjoy a night out in a completely different, no pressure, way,” Kate said.
Alongside its bar offering, SOBR also operates as a vibrant events space and is available for private hire. The team has expanded into outside catering too, working at festivals and with other businesses.
Kate said the venue has worked hard to build momentum, collaborate locally and make its mark in award schemes.
“We have shown the doubters and the sceptics that a zero bar and events can be successful,” she said. “We have been extremely proactive over the past nine months, collaborating with other businesses in our area, and putting ourselves in the spotlight in various awards schemes.”
She added that earlier recognition from DRAM Magazine and the UK Best Bar & Pub Awards was especially encouraging, given those categories were not limited to alcohol-free venues.
“Now, to pick up this accolade in the UK Enterprise Awards is absolutely fantastic. We are all beyond thrilled,” she said.
The judging process for the UK Enterprise Awards is independent and merit-based, taking into account business performance, customer recommendations and reviews, market impact and visionary leadership.
Kate said SOBR hopes to continue setting the standard for Scotland’s growing low and no alcohol scene.
“We have set the benchmark for other zero bars opening in Scotland,” she said. “In the meantime, we will continue to do our best, keeping industry standards high, and, as a trailblazer, reaching out to connect with new zero spirits entering the market.”
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A busy summer has seen SOBR take part in a series of festivals across the North East. In early August, the venue brought The Secret Life of Dad’s viral sensation Pints & Ponytails to Aberdeen, partnering with Bloom Lifestyle Salon, Secret Life of Dad’s and Jump Ship Brewing for an afternoon of community, support and fun.
The bar also launched a new summer menu in mid-July, featuring 12 “never before seen” cocktails and a stronger focus on functional tonics, designed around how customers want to feel.
For more information, visit sobrbar.co.uk.
