Dry January challenge against alcohol in the workplace

From January 1, 2026, Dry January, which claims to be the largest alcohol prevention campaign in Switzerland, invites people to live alcohol-free for a month and thus question their own alcohol consumption. In January 2026, the professional environment will also be covered. The Workplace Challenge is a new initiative that motivates companies and teams to start the year alcohol-free together. Dry January provides those responsible in the company with tips and materials before and during the campaign to make the challenge interesting for the team. The campaign is sponsored and supported by Blaues Kreuz Schweiz, Fachverband Sucht, Sucht Schweiz and the Federal Office of Public Health FOPH, among others.

Alcohol in the workplace as a cost driver

In Switzerland, 2 to 5% of employees and up to 10% of managers use alcohol in a way that is harmful to their health. Alcohol consumption plays a role in one in six dismissals. 15 to 25% of accidents at work are attributable to alcohol consumption or the consumption of other psychoactive substances. In Switzerland, 215 million hours are lost due to illness or accidents, 8.4 million of which are caused by alcohol.

Companies take responsibility

«For us, Dry January is not a sacrifice, but a conscious start to the new year. We want to actively support our employees in this. At Unic, we are breaking new ground with curiosity and a sense of community to improve well-being in everyday working life. As Office Manager, the physical and mental health of our employees is particularly important to me. That's why we promote a mindful approach to alcohol, including through specific offers such as alcohol-free drinks receptions in January,» says Anita Hermecz, Office Manager at Unic AG Bern-Liebefeld. «Go for Dry January - good for your liver and your wallet,» says Michael Frei, a participating employee at Unic.

What is the Workplace Challenge?

The team's Dry January challenge provides the impetus for a healthier, more productive and happier working environment. This year's focus of Dry January, «Occupational Health Management», aims to bring the topic of «alcohol and work» closer to companies with a playful lightness. The «Workplace Challenge» is designed for this purpose: The focus here is on employee health, as well as raising awareness and questioning drinking norms. Drinking norms can be particularly problematic in a work context if they create social pressure and make employees feel uncomfortable. In contrast, the Workplace Challenge promotes team cohesion. Dry January makes it easier for companies to make team events that were previously accompanied or even supported by alcohol alcohol alcohol-free and still celebrate in style. The vision: Places where we work are perceived as a central, valuable and safe environment in which to reflect on alcohol consumption together and support changes in consumption. By participating in Dry January, companies make a committed contribution to the physical and mental health of their employees.

Dry January in operation - simply implemented

Dry January supports companies and HR managers in carrying out the campaign in the company. It provides material and gadgets for the Workplace Challenge. In addition, the Frappé-Velo, interactive half-day workshops on alcohol in the workplace, the Blue Cocktail Bar, mixing shows, courses or bar service with world-class flairtender, a driving simulator, the Promille glasses and interactive workshops can be hired at a lower membership price. Prizes include weekly deliveries of non-alcoholic drinks for the whole team and a grand prize of a spa visit in Burgdorf.

Further information and how to take part