Two of the UK’s leading wine distributors are to join forces after Enotria announced the acquisition of Coe Vintners, for an undisclosed sum.
Enotria said that the combination of the UK’s leading distributors in wine, spirits and Champagne creates a “unique platform providing the on trade an unmatched portfolio, service and category activation”.
The company said that the investment signalled “a strong statement of intent for the business”.
It said it was looking to grow strategically and sustainably, creating value for customers, suppliers and personnel.
The group said: “This move is a critical component of the strategy that will drive the business objectives; growth, a clear and focused sales and marketing approach, improved process efficiency and a winning portfolio.”
Both companies will continue to operate separately during the transition period and said customers should continue to work with their existing contact and order as normal, with no interruption to service.
Enotria chief executive Troy Christensen said: “We are delighted to be working with the Coe family and their team. Coe Vintners has built a fantastic business as the UK’s leading wholesaler of premium on trade Champagnes, wines and spirits. There are many complementary aspects with the Enotria business, and together we can provide customers with a market-leading offering and quality service proposition. We have made significant investments at Enotria over the last year, in warehousing and in people. Couple this with nationwide distribution, award-winning customer training programmes, and category insight and design support, and this means that we are now in a strong position to enhance and develop the premium business of the two companies.”
John Coe said: “Both companies enjoy long-standing relationships with their suppliers, and focus on working in partnership to develop their brands and products, targeting the right channels across the UK market. The premiumisation of our business and our philosophy to create trusted relationships with both customers and suppliers make Enotria the perfect partner.”
Last year, Bibendum acquired supermarket and retailer-focused supplier PLB.
