US wine market sees volume growth slowing, but value growth continues to rise, Rabobank says

The American wine market is slowing in terms of volume growth, despite continued expansion throughout 2014, according to Rabobank's Wine Quarterly Q2 2015 report. But a report from the financial service agri-food team said US value growth is actually accelerating, making it a desirable market for premium brands.

UK remains largest export market for Côtes du Rhône wine

Côtes du Rhône figures for 2014 confirmed the UK remained the Rhône Valley's largest export market, accounting for 18% of its exports. 

Mobile consumer spending to hit £53 billion over the next decade

Consumer spending through the use of smartphones and other mobile devices is forecasted to reach £53 billion a year over the next decade according to new research released by Barclays.

Record passenger traffic in UK airports could signal growing opportunity for wine and spirit brands

Three major airports across the UK hit record breaking traffic numbers last month, according to the most recent Moodie's Report figures, signalling the opportunity for wine and spirit brands in the travel retail channel could not be stronger.

Artisan wine fair RAW announces new Berlin venue, as international visitor numbers grow

The artisan wine fair, RAW is launching a new fair in Berlin later this year, to cater for an increasingly international clientele.

Pernod Ricard ups focus on Jacob's Creek & Havana Club for summer

Pernod Ricard is ramping up activity on Jacob's Creek and launching new campaigns for Malibu and Cuban rum brand Havana Club.

Economists brace for China's slowing economy

China has reported a 15% fall in exports and a 12% fall in imports for the month of March 2015, which has increased concerns that the Chinese economy is slowing down.

Independent wine merchant Le Vignoble boosts business with extension of wine lounge

Plymouth independent wine retailer Le Vignoble is set to boost its focus on its wine lounge with the addition of a new 'after-dinner' area that will offer customers premium artisan spirits.

New Zealand Cellar exceeds crowdfunding target within a week

Online retailer The New Zealand Cellar has exceeded its crowdfunding target within five days of launching the project, enabling it to open its first retail outlet in London this summer.

Burgundy negociants Badet Clement invest in new winery

Burgundy negociants Badet Clément is investing more than €6.5m in a new state of the art winery at Monze Cave, following its acquisition of the Monze Cave cooperative in January.

Analysis: Majestic's acquisition of Naked Wines

Majestic Wines' acquisition of Naked Wines, and the appointment of Rowan Gormley as its new chief executive, will see the launch of a new international multi-channel wine retailing group. 

Richard Siddle: "I'd like to raise a glass to you all..."

When I joined Harpers eight years ago I have to admit I was very much an outsider joining the world of wine and spirits.

Harpers Wine & Spirit to join Agile Media

Harpers Wine and Spirit and Harpers.co.uk have, from the beginning of April, joined Off Licence News at Agile Media.

Harpers Awards 2015 shortlist announced

Today sees the announcement of the runners and riders for the independent merchant and main industry categories in the 2015 Harpers Awards. But who will come out on top on the night?

Constellation Brands 2015 results: sales increase 24% and company to pay first dividend

Constellation Brands released it fiscal 2015 year end results showing an increase in consolidated net sales of 24% and following another strong year, the company announced it would initiate its first ever dividend payment in the company's history.

Broadlands boost on-trade offering with new agencies

Broadlands Wineries has added three new agencies to boost its on-trade offering as part on its ongoing development as a dedicated wine supplier. 

EU publishes new vine planting rules to boost EU flexibility

The EU Commission has published new vine planting rules aimed at giving the EU greater flexibility to increase wine production to meet global demand.

Majestic Wines acquires Naked Wines and names Rowan Gormley chief executive

Majestic Wines has bought Naked Wines for £70 million and named Rowan Gormley chief executive officer of the new combined group.

The Coop sees profit boost as business continues to turn around

Increased polarisation of Australian wine market widens gap between winners and losers

The Australian wine market is becoming increasingly polarised as many bulk grape producers and grape wine growers appear to be on the brink of  collapse, while premium wine producers seem to be growing in both value and volume.