Harpers Wine & Spirit Trade News

Henry Jeffreys on premium spirits

Published: 19 July, 2023

Henry Jeffreys dives into the growing world of premium spirits and how newly elevated category heroes are creating a halo effect.

WSTA diversifies board with four new members

Published: 12 July, 2023

A year on from its appeal to diversify its board, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has welcomed four new board members.

UK wine rules: Getting the blend right

Published: 10 July, 2023

The government claims its new proposals will “put a rocket” under UK trade by enabling businesses to “blend” and “transform” bulk wine on home turf, though some say it will sound the death knell for wines of provenance. Jo Gilbert wades in.

WSTA tells government 'It’s not too late to scrap hikes'

Published: 26 June, 2023

With just one month till the government’s alcohol tax hikes are effective, the Wine and Spirits Trade Association (WSTA) has reiterated why the “crippling” duty increases should be scrapped.

Sir Graham Brady announced as new chair of Wine and Spirits APPG

Published: 18 May, 2023

Sir Graham Brady, MP for Altrincham and Sale West, has been announced as the new chair of Wine and Spirits APPG.

Majestic’s Rob Cooke joins WSTA board

Published: 28 April, 2023

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has welcomed Majestic’s COO, Rob Cooke, to its board this month.

Pacific trade pact overshadowed by domestic pressures, says WSTA

Published: 31 March, 2023

Confirmation that the UK has signed up to the Asia-Pacific trade pact will open new markets down the line for some in the drinks trade, but will offer little sustenance in the short term.

‘Super stealth tax’ looms via Spring Budget

Published: 14 March, 2023

Industry heads are warning that wine drinkers could face rocketing prices if the chancellor goes ahead with a double-pronged tax hike, likely to be announced at tomorrow’s Spring Budget.

Letter to Scottish government calls for delay to DRS

Published: 07 March, 2023

Hundreds of businesses have joined forces calling on the Scottish government to “delay, review and rethink” its Deposit Return Scheme.

Wine and spirit businesses welcome the Windsor Framework Agreement

Published: 03 March, 2023

The Windsor Framework Agreement, a system designed to facilitate the movement of goods from GB to Ireland post-Brexit has been welcomed by the UK wine and spirit businesses.

Small businesses disadvantaged as DRS saga continues

Published: 03 March, 2023

The Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA) continues to express serious concerns over the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) ahead of the August launch date with many questions about its operation still unanswered and small businesses still disadvantaged.

WSTA moves to diversify board

Published: 01 March, 2023

The Wine & Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) is seeking new board members who will help add diversity to its team, having revised its recruitment strategy.

Trade Associations unite against alcohol ad ban

Published: 21 February, 2023

The UK’s trade associations, representing the alcohol and retail sectors, have joined forces to oppose the Scottish government’s proposals for a ban on alcohol advertising and promotion.

Tech and Innovation: Looking to the future

Published: 25 January, 2023

Following a strong year in 2022 in terms of technological advances and innovation, Jo Gilbert asked the trade’s key crystal ball-gazers to share their predictions for 2023.

Government extends alcohol duty-freeze for six months

Published: 20 December, 2022

The freeze on UK alcohol duty rates has been extended six months to 1 August 2023, the government announced yesterday (19 December 2022).

Looking Back, Forging Ahead Q&A: Miles Beale, WSTA

Published: 09 December, 2022

Following another turbulent year for the drinks trade, Miles Beale, chief executive of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA), reflects on the highs and lows of 2022, plus the hopes and plans for the business in the year ahead.

How the Drinks trade reacted to The Budget

Published: 17 November, 2022

In today’s Autumn Statement (17 November 2022), Chancellor Jeremy Hunt made a few announcements regarding business taxes, but there was no mention of alcohol duty, much to the frustration of the drinks trade.

WSTA pens letter to Chancellor opposing alcohol duty u-turn

Published: 15 November, 2022

Over 100 business executives from across the alcohol industry have signed a letter written to the Times calling on the Chancellor to bring back the freeze on alcohol duty.

Tributes pour in for Queen Elizabeth II

Published: 09 September, 2022

Queen Elizabeth II, the UK’s longest-serving monarch, died yesterday (September 8) at Balmoral Castle, aged 96, bringing her 70-year reign to a close.

Hospitality industry urges new Prime Minister Liz Truss to ‘act quickly and decisively’ to save the sector

Published: 06 September, 2022

On Monday (5 September), Conservative Party members chose a new leader and, therefore, a new Prime Minister. Liz Truss secured 57% of the vote, defeating Rishi Sunak in the race to Number 10.