Luxury investments (such as art, jewelry, classic cars and fine wine) have become a popular alternative for investors over the last 20 years. In autumn 2017, the Knight Frank Luxury Index (KFLI) reported substantial growth in fine wine markets, making it the top performing option for luxury investors. The report showed that wine, up 25%, was the top performer in the index thanks to strong…

In November 2017, Conviviality was riding the crest of a wave after share prices hit a record high of 426p following a raft of acquisitions. Chief executive Diana Hunter was the toast of the stock market as revenues had soared by 85{7c69fd72f8e2bab9ee87ef5a2685d86c0107c79a8a610a3574925e3ec9a3ba47} to £1.65 billion in the year to April 2017, while profits more than doubled to £22.5 million. Investors were sitting on a healthy…

There’s a standard bearer for the British craft beer movement that recently carried out an extraordinarily successful crowdfunding campaign. It’s a brewer that is at once innovative, experimental and exciting in its approach to making beer and has embarked on opening top-notch specialist bars to bring both its own and other producers’ best brews to significant urban locations. Its fundraising effort to ease its expansion…

Diageo is facing an investor revolt over “excessive” executive pay packages, according to shareholder advisory firm Manifest. The investors will vote on Thursday on a remuneration report which recommends an £18.2 million retirement package for former chief executive Paul Walsh. The report also recommends a basic salary of £1 million for Walsh’s replacement Ivan Menezes, who started in July and is eligible for share and…

Drinks retailers remain attractive investment prospects despite the economic conditions, according to Majestic’s chief executive Steve Lewis. The head of the publicly-listed company said the City was receptive to specialist players “who understood their market” and delivered long-term sustainability. Majestic is due to report its latest  trading figures next month. Last year, to March 29, 2010, its pre-tax profits rose 117% to £16 million on…