For any retailer with ambitions to head up a drinks company, González Byass UK managing director Melissa Draycott’s story should prove inspirational, finds Lucy Britner Melissa Draycott is no stranger to the shop floor. During her near-20 years at Sainsbury’s, the González Byass UK managing director counts a stint as store manager at the supermarket’s Cambridge branch in the early noughties. (Back then the…

Hatch Mansfield wine director Philip Tuck MW has died, after an accident in France. He was 59 years old.  Hatch Mansfield CEO Patrick McGrath released the following statement late yesterday: “It is with great sadness that we report that Philip Tuck MW, wine director at Hatch Mansfield has passed away this morning. “Philip was involved in a cycling accident abroad and suffered a major injury…

The managing director of Pernod Ricard’s UK unit is to step down at the end of August. David Haworth (pictured left), who has been at the company for 34 years, will be succeeded by Julia Massies (right), who is currently chief financial officer of Pernod Ricard EMEA & LATAM. Massies, who joined Pernod Ricard in 2001, will step into the role on September 1.  …

Accolade Wines brand, Hardys, has returned to TV advertising, with its ‘Certainty’ campaign. The activation, which will continue until May 7, is expected to reach 20 million adults in the UK. The campaign features national TV, video on demand and YouTube ads, including TV slots during ITV’s Coronation Street and The Chase. According to the company, the advert showcases a couple at different stages of…

English wine producer Balfour has created two new senior roles, as it announces plans to expand production. The company has promoted Adam Williams from sales director to chief operations officer and appointed Jack Merrylees, previously from Majestic Wine, to the role of marketing & PR director. Williams and Merrylees form part of a new board, which also includes head winemaker Fergus Elias and commercial director…

The organisers of Prowein have reported an increase in trade visitors on 2022, despite public transport strikes in Düsseldorf during the show. Messe Düsseldorf said the number of trade visitors reached 49,000 this year – up from 38,000 in 2022. In a recent interview with Drinks Retailing, Prowein director Michael Degen said the company was aiming for 50,000. Organisers said 86% of…