Spar has revealed plans to introduce eight new wines to its range this year as part of an ongoing review of its BWS category. Daphne Teremetz, Spar’s trading manager for wines, told OLN the retailer hopes to raise average spend in stores “but only by introducing higher quality wines” that are “really good value for money”. The retailer will be launching four of the wines…

Sipsmith has responded to increasing demand for its boutique gin by moving to a larger home on a residential street in Chiswick, west London. A new still called Constance will join existing stills Prudence and Patience at the new distillery, increasing capacity for gin production.    Co-founder Sam Glasworth said: “There’s nothing we enjoy more than meeting like-minded discerning and interested drinkers and very much…

Japanese supplier Suntory Holdings has bought US group Beam in a £9.7 billion deal that creates the world’s third-largest spirits company. It will pay Beam’s shareholders £50.76 per share – a premium of 25% on its last closing price – and take on Beam’s existing debt. The new Suntory stable will include Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbons, Teacher’s Scotch, Courvoisier cognac and Sauza tequila,…

Accolade Wines has reached an agreement to buy New Zealand brands Mud House and Waipara Hills from the Mud House Wine Group. The deal is subject to approval by New Zealand’s Overseas Investment Office, which often takes three or more months to reach a decision. Paul Schaafsma, general manager of Accolade Wines UK, said: “The Mud House acquisition significantly strengthens our new Zealand portfolio in…