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Looking back on 2016 and ahead to 2017: Hal Wilson, Cambridge Wine Merchants

Published:  28 December, 2016

Hal Wilson muses on the challenges facing the trade and the success of the Vindependents

Hal Wilson muses on the challenges facing the trade and the success of the Vindependents. 

 

What were the highs and lows for you and your business in 2016?

Highs included receiving great feedback for the work we've done to improve our retail and wholesale offering, investment to our retail estate, our wine bars being counted among the best in the UK and the wholesale business growing 20%. A happy team and great products we all love.

Lows were the UK's reputation in Europe clearly being dealt a blow and six months later there is no destination insight for Brexit. It is an embarrassment and I hope we can find out what our relationship with Europe is going to be as soon as possible.

What were the most significant things that happened or issues and trends that occurred in 2016?

Gin, craft beer and Prosecco still booming, but also a willingness to look at other sparkling wines, particularly English.

[It was also the] first full year of Vindependents, a business that Harpers had significant hand in facilitating through its Indie Summits, which has seen membership swell to 29, from an initial 17 just 18 months ago. The business clearly suits its members and 2017 will see a lot of growth.

What trends do you predict for 2017?

Inflation! It hasn't really kicked in yet but with small global grape harvest, currency instability and fuel price increases, the wine trade is in for some hard choices. Reduce quality or increase price, or take even less profit. A stark outlook if you can't persuade customers to stay with you as prices rise.

What are likely to be the biggest opportunities for the trade in 2017?

Indies continuing to work together to make themselves more competitive, better quality, better run businesses. Continuing to innovate and keep quality high and separate ourselves from less passionate companies.

What are the biggest challenges facing the trade in 2017?

Making profits.

Who are the people, companies or retailers to watch in 2017?

I take great pride from watching my own team of buyers, retailers, wholesalers, back office and hospitality staff growing in maturity and professionalism. Learning from other business owners that are Vindependents customers is really enlightening.

What have you been most looking forward to drinking over Christmas and New Year?

A rare bottle of Graham's 1948, released from an Oxbridge college.

What were you hoping for from Father Christmas?

He's busy enough. A nice Christmas and birthday with family and friends.

If you were granted one wish for 2017, what would that be?

Someone came up with a workable plan to sort out Syria.

And your New Year's resolution?

Shed those pounds and get ready for some great cycling trips in 2017.  

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