Liberty Wines recruits commercial director

By Gemma McKenna

Published: 08 April, 2014

Liberty Wines has recruited Jon Worsley as commercial director to boost the company's premium position.

Worsley joins from The Haciendas Company (United Wineries), where was global sales director. Previously he was business sector controller at Treasury Wine Estates.

David Gleave, Liberty's managing director, said: "Jon Worsley stood out as a candidate, and I very much look forward to working with him. We are a thriving business and believe it is time to bring in a senior person to co-ordinate the commercial direction of Liberty Wines. We think that Jon is the person best suited to do this, and we are certain he will ensure our business remains focused on strengthening our position in the premium wine market."

Worsley added: "I am delighted to be joining the Liberty Wines team and working closely with their strong sales team. It is an exciting time for the premium wine market and I look forward to helping to drive the business forward."

Speaking to harpers.co.uk in February, Gleave said October to December 2013 were Liberty's busiest ever three months, with momentum continuing into 2014. "January was a big step up on the previous January. We are seeing a bit more confidence from our customers but things are still very competitive. They're looking at whatever they can to save money," he added. Since Liberty is not a cheap option, its core wines sit between rrp £8 to £15, it has focused on further improving customer service and introducing new wines, as well as craft beers and spirits.

The firm moved into bespoke new office and warehouse space last year in Clapham, which Gleave said allow it to improve service levels as well as direct deliveries. It is also using the building for education purposes, having brought in 60-70 customers for training over the course of a week recently.

Liberty imports and distributes wines from 17 countries and over 200 producers.

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