Spirits industry giant Diageo has announced a new campaign to support parents in preventing underage drinking.  Based on research commissioned by Community Alcohol Partnerships (CAP), Diageo is collaborating with influencers to highlight the dangers of underage drinking.  Demonstrating the role of parents in preventing underage drinking, the research found that 53% of parents have allowed, or would allow their children to have…

Wines of Portugal has announced the return of its annual campaign geared towards independent wine retailers.  Taking place in June, Wines of Portugal Month – which is now in its third year – aims to educate consumers about Portuguese wines and boost sales. According to the trade body, sales of Portuguese wines were up 383.48% in value and 440.87% in June 2022 compared…

Waitrose has announced that it will be replacing the majority of its small wine bottles with aluminium cans in an effort to reduce its carbon footprint.  As of January 15, all small wine formats except for Champagne, Prosecco, Cava and Rioja – which are appellation restricted – will be replaced with cans. According to the retailer, this decision will save “320 tonnes of…

Global Brands has announced the acquisition of Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef from Molson Coors.  Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef have been produced and distributed by Global Brands since 2012 under licence from Molson Coors. Global Brands has now purchased all three in an effort to grow the brands “in a way that aligns with the company’s vision”, as it looks to cater towards the increasing…

Two independent breweries have announced closure plans amid soaring costs, as multinational brewers also feel the pinch.  Warrington-based brewery, Twisted Wheel Brew, explained its decision to close was based on the impact of Covid restrictions as well as the cost-of-living crisis, which have made “business unviable”. The brewery had been active since February 2020.  “With sales falling, general consumer confidence low, and further increases…

The supreme champion, trophy and medal winners for the 2022 International Beer Challenge (IBC) have been revealed.  1906 Black Coupage by Spanish brewery Hijos de Rivera has been awarded Supreme Champion, as well as winning the award for Best Lager Above 5%.  With entries spanning 31 countries, 61 were awarded gold medals. In total, 82 different styles of beer were entered into…

Naked Wines has appointed former CEO and current shareholder Rowan Gormley as an advisor to the board. Gormley, who announced his departure in November 2019, will work with the company as it “finalises its revised operational and financial plans” for the business. Naked expects to announce the revised plans in mid-October. Gormley owns 2.9% of the company’s share capital and…