House of Townend and Firth & Co announce new appointments

By James Lawrence

Published: 10 January, 2025

Two notable UK merchants have greeted 2025 with new appointments and promotions, with Georgia Townend (picured, above) stepping into the role of senior wine buyer and associate director at the eponymous firm, House of Townend.

Representing the 5th generation tasked with managing and steering this venerable merchant, Townend joins the business after six years at Charles Taylor Wines, where she progressed to the position of senior wine buyer in 2021.

The new associate director was also featured in the Harpers 30 Under 30 list in 2022, recognised as a formidable up-and-coming talent in the trade.

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MD John Townend commented: “I am naturally delighted that Georgia has decided to return to East Yorkshire. Welcoming the fifth generation of the family to the business is a real pleasure and something I know all our predecessors would have been very proud to see. Georgia has a real passion for wine and she will be a fantastic addition to the company as we look to continue to progress in the future.”

Meanwhile, Yorkshire-based Firth & Co has announced the appointment of Richard Pickles (picured, below) as a senior sales representative, due to start his new role on 3 February.

According to Firth & Co: “Richard rejoins Andrew Firth, the founder and MD of Firth & Co, for whom he worked when Andrew ran the legendary Thirsk-based wine merchants Playford Ros.”

Following his time at Playford Ros, Richard joined Bibendum, becoming director of sales in charge of the north and Scotland before accepting a position with Enotria & Coe.

Pickles said: “This is a very exciting move for me and I am delighted to be working with Andrew again, one of the most dedicated and knowledgeable wine merchants in the UK. His drive and passion have established Firth & Co’s reputation as a formidable player in the wine and spirits sector in the north – and beyond.

“After many years working for successful national wine companies across England and Scotland, it’s now the perfect time to return closer to my North Yorkshire home and to join up with some of the great names of the Yorkshire hospitality sector.

Firth added: “This is a crucially important appointment for us as we continue to expand across the north of England. It’s 10 years now since we moved to our spacious premises at Ainderby Steeple, near Northallerton, and we have grown steadily year on year. Richard’s appointment will take us to the next level.”

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