National importers and brand owners should increasingly target the growing independent wine merchant, delegates heard at LIWSF.
independents said they had a growing interest in New Zealand, Spain and France (outside of Bordeaux) while Pinot Noir, Malbec and Sauvignon Blanc are increasingly popular.
Richard Siddle, editor of Harpers, said: "This study gives a clearer understanding of the UK wine merchant market and importers should take note."
Independent merchants sell 3.9m cases each year, of which:
39% sold at 5-10;
25% sold above 10;
53% sold to the on-trade;
55% deliver one to five cases per delivery;
40% bought from national importers;
42% bought from producers;
Average margins: 24%.