Generation Z consciously drinks less alcohol. This also leads to higher productivity compared to other generations. Because those who drink less alcohol are significantly more productive and creative, various studies report.
It has been known for some time that Generation Z has a different drinking behavior than older generations. Reasons for avoiding alcohol are often cited by young people as self-protection and control, which one would otherwise lose.
The IWSR recently highlighted in a report (Paywall/Login required), that Generation Z is said to drink 20% less alcohol compared to the Millennial generation. ISWR is a data and analytics company specializing in the beverage industry.
And this rejection of alcoholic beverages also affects productivity. And the fear of hangxiety.
The fear of losing control and psychological symptoms makes Gen Z abstain from alcohol
What does hangxiety mean? Hangxiety is a portmanteau of hangover and anxiety and describes the psychological symptoms such as fear, panic, restlessness that can occur after consuming alcohol. This is reported by the English-language magazine TheGuardian.
Members of Generation Z consciously abstain from alcohol to avoid these problems. As a result, they are spared from hangovers or other cognitive impairments and can start their day more productively.
This behavior contrasts with other generations, such as older Millennials, who, according to the study, drink 20% more than Generation Z. Because these people, who have been drinking, struggle with the effects of alcohol for between 24 and 48 hours, while the others are significantly more creative and productive than their older counterparts who had too much to drink the night before.
Does alcohol really have such a strong impact on productivity? Yes, alcohol demonstrably reduces performance and productivity, both acutely and in the long term. This is noted by the German Headquarters for Addiction Issues e.V. (PDF file).
In Germany, it is estimated that alcohol annually causes productivity losses of over 16 billion euros, primarily due to errors, reduced efficiency, absenteeism, and accidents. This is reported by the independent information portal “Alcohol? Know your limit”.
Generation Z is therefore more productive over a longer period than individuals who drink regularly or more frequently and thus take certain risks.
The declining alcohol consumption has also been noticed by breweries, which earn less money from their beverages. There is now a rethink happening. Breweries that can survive the transition financially are focusing on non-alcoholic beers or beers with very low alcohol content: In Germany, breweries are panicking because Generation Z simply doesn’t drink enough alcohol anymore
