Why is Seedlip so expensive?

Answered by Randall Whitlock

Seedlip is known for being a premium, spirit brand, and its prices reflect its high-quality production process and ingredients. The CEO, Ben Branson, explains that it takes six weeks to make a single bottle of Seedlip, which already gives us an insight into the level of care and attention that goes into each product.

One of the key factors contributing to the higher cost of Seedlip is its unique distillation process. Unlike many other non-alcoholic beverages, Seedlip distills every single-origin ingredient separately. This means that each botanical is distilled individually, allowing for precise control over the flavors and aromas. This meticulous approach requires more time, effort, and resources compared to simply blending ingredients together.

Moreover, the ingredients used in Seedlip are of the utmost quality. They source the finest botanicals from around the world, ensuring that only the best flavors are extracted during the distillation process. High-quality ingredients often come with a higher price tag, as they are more difficult to cultivate and harvest.

Another aspect to consider is the scale of production. Seedlip is a relatively small company compared to larger spirit brands, and they do not benefit from the same economies of scale. Producing smaller quantities can result in higher costs per unit, as the fixed costs of production are spread over fewer bottles.

Additionally, Seedlip's commitment to sustainability and ethical practices may also contribute to the higher prices. They prioritize using organic ingredients and sustainable farming methods, which can be more expensive to implement. These practices not only ensure the quality of the final product but also align with the values and preferences of many consumers who are willing to pay a premium for ethically produced goods.

It's worth noting that the non-alcoholic drinks market is still relatively niche compared to the alcoholic beverages industry. As such, the production and distribution costs for non-alcoholic may be higher due to lower volumes and less established supply chains. As the demand for non-alcoholic alternatives continues to grow, it's possible that economies of scale will improve, leading to potential price reductions in the future.

The higher cost of Seedlip can be attributed to several factors, including the time-consuming distillation process, the use of premium ingredients, the smaller scale of production, and the commitment to sustainability. While the price may be higher compared to some alcoholic products, it reflects the quality, craftsmanship, and unique offerings of Seedlip as a premium non-alcoholic brand.