Curious AF, the drink brand founded by Lisa King, is set to open the country’s first alcohol-free brick-and-mortar bottle shop. The store opens on November 18 in Ponsonby, Auckland, on November 18, following the success of a pop-up store in July.
“Earlier this year, we opened a pop-up alcohol-free bottle shop for the month of July and were blown away by its success. Across just a few short weeks, some 2000 people walked through our beautiful art gallery-inspired installation to discover what the Curious AF movement had to offer. And it didn’t disappoint. In the first few weeks, we sold out of many product lines and received an overwhelming number of requests to make the pop-up permanent. Four months later, here we are,” said King.
Shoppers in the new store will have access to the full range of AF Drinks, speciality ice moulds, garnishes, glassware and accessories. It will also be selling a variety of alcohol-free drinks from other global brands, including the Ghia aperitif from the USA and Kin Europhics from model Bella Hadid.
“In the essence of keeping things curious AF, the products we sell in the shop will be constantly reviewed and updated – so don’t expect the same offering time and time again.”
“The way the shop has been designed will encourage shoppers to taste all of AF’s 10 drinks, as well as the featured products for the week. It’s very much a hands-on, glasses-at-the-ready experience.”
King also hopes to hold unique AF events in the space, such as garnishing masterclasses, food matching nights and beverage themes lessons.
“To have our first resident retail space open in time for Christmas is incredible and it speaks volumes as to how much the Curious AF movement has grown in New Zealand. We are so excited to be able to offer Kiwis a better experience to shop AF.”
The Curious AF Bottle Shop is located at 5 Crummer Road.