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Functional, non-alcoholic spirits brand Aplós has raised $5 million to support rapid expansion across the fast-growing alcohol alternative market.
The investment caps a breakout year for the New York-based company, which has recorded triple digit growth across both retail and hospitality channels.
Over this year, Aplós has expanded into over 2000 new retail stores and secured placement on more than 1000 foodservice menus nationwide.
The latest funding round will allow the brand to scale production, expand its retail and hospitality footprint and accelerate product innovation across both spirits and RTD formats.
Co-founded by Emily Onkey and David Fudge, Aplós is now among the fastest growing non-alcoholic spirits brands in the US. Positioned at the intersection of wellness, craftsmanship and modern drinking culture, the company has helped redefine the category by moving beyond traditional mocktail perceptions.
Its functional non alcoholic spirits are formulated with botanicals and natural ingredients designed to deliver both flavour and purpose.
“We’re entering a new era of drinking,” said Fudge, co-founder and CEO of Aplós. “More people are questioning the role alcohol plays in their lives out of a desire to feel better, live internationally and still enjoy the rituals they love. They want sophistication, functionality and experience, without the trade-offs.”
The growth comes as the US is set to enter its lowest alcohol consuming holiday season on record according to research, with only 54% of adults reporting they drink alcohol.
Looking ahead, Aplós will expand its portfolio with the release of its Dragon Fruit Martini in early 2026 – a non-alcoholic reimagining of the Pornstar Martini. It will join the company’s range of functional spirits, Aplós Calme, Aplós Ease and Aplós Arise, as well as its line-up of RTD zero-proof cocktails including Ume Spritz, Mandora Negroni, Chili Margarita and Kola Fashioned.













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