Fresh data from Comité Champagne has shown shipments fell in 2024, compared to the previous year, as geopolitical uncertainty continues to impact consumer sentiment.  

The trade association said that overall Champagne shipments were down 9.2% from 2023, to 271.4 million bottles.  

In 2024, the domestic market of France was down by 7.2% to 118.2 million bottles, while exports dropped 10.8% to 153.2 million bottles. Exports make up the majority of sales at 56.4%, which Comité Champagne said is a “switch in trends observed in recent years”. 

At present, UK specific data is not available. It will be released in March.  

Victoria Henson, Comité Champagne’s UK director told Drinks Retailing that its tricky to comment on the UK until this data is published.  

However, talking globally, Henson explained: “There has been a decline in shipments, mainly due to the cost-of-living crisis and an uncertain global eco-political context in 2024 – between conflicts and crises, as well as the many elections that took place. Champagne tends to reflect the economic and political climate, which has an impact on social moods.” 

Nonetheless, she added: “Champagne has been around for a long time and is amazingly resilient. It has continuously evolved with the times to remain exemplary and there are some excellent vintages to look forward to, that are coming up. “ 

Maxime Toubart, president of the Champagne Winegrowers and co-president of Comité Champagne, further stated: “Champagne is a true barometer of consumer mood. This is no time for celebration.” 

David Chatillon, president of the Champagne Houses and co-president of the Comité Champagne, added: “It’s in less favourable times that we need to prepare for the future, maintain our plans in terms of sustainable development, and attract new markets and new consumers. Champagne is a solid, sustainable organisational model that has proved its value, even in the face of adversity, which reinforces its confidence in the future.”