Ask the Collective
The questions independent drinks founders ask most — answered. Distilled from years of community knowledge so the good stuff never disappears in the feed again.
Which UK warehousing and logistics providers do drinks founders recommend?
Members shared a few tested alternatives to major providers. There was strong advice against LCB, with one member emphatically recommending against them. Recommended providers: - **Macintyre Scott (MSX)** — based in Totton; members report they looked after their operation well - **Belvedere Warehousing** — mentioned as an alternative option - **EHD** — described as "great" Members noted that while these providers work, costs can be significant once volumes scale up. One member using a recommended provider for wine storage flagged that pricing isn't competitive at higher volumes, so it's worth negotiating terms based on your anticipated throughput.
What are the current bonded warehouse pricing trends and service issues in the UK, and which alternatives are members using?
Members are reporting significant price increases across UK bonded warehouses coupled with stretched service levels. **LCB** has raised landing charges from 50p to 75p per case and storage from 6p to 7.5p per week; they're also experiencing capacity constraints with 3-day landing times and 7-day rework turnarounds, plus strict policies on late deliveries. Current pricing varies slightly by operator—**Horseguards Gin** reports goods-in at 67p and storage at 7.25p per case of 6. Members note the sector is experiencing high demand across the board, driving prices up while service levels decline. Alternatives members are exploring: - **FuturePro Logistics** — used successfully at Seedlip and still in use there; contact Mark@futureprologistics.com, +44 7766 114 897 - **EHD** — praised as not expensive, quick for landing, and offering decent delivery rates Members' general sense is that capacity is tight across all warehousing operators. Those considering alternatives should factor in both pricing and service responsiveness when evaluating providers.
How can Kindred Collective members use collective purchasing power to negotiate better pricing with logistics and fulfilment providers?
Members identified that pooling volume across the group could create meaningful negotiating leverage. The practical approach is to create a shared visibility tool first, then use that data to approach suppliers collectively. **The tactic:** - Build a shared spreadsheet documenting what each member currently pays logistics and fulfilment providers (base charges, rates, volumes). This reveals pricing patterns and creates a foundation for collective negotiation. - Pool the group's combined volume when approaching suppliers to negotiate better rates. - Members recommended **Bezos** as a logistics/fulfilment option worth evaluating; those interested can request an introduction. - One member volunteered to build and maintain the initial spreadsheet if members populate it with their current provider data and charges. **Status:** This is an emerging initiative with several members expressing commitment ("Count us in", "Sounds like a superb idea") but still in early stages pending spreadsheet creation and population.
How can I find short-term bottle suppliers in the UK with faster lead times when major distributors have long wait times?
When standard bottle distributors hit capacity or don't stock your specification, members have successfully sourced stock from specialist suppliers and direct contacts. **Recommended suppliers for urgent orders:** - **Rawlings** — mentioned as a faster alternative to major distributors - **Berlin Packaging** — stocks a range of bottles; note that email is slow so calling is essential - **Bostic Cap** — stocks large quantities of stoppers/closures and can turn around orders quickly; calling recommended over email **Alternative tactics:** - **Direct community sourcing** — members have offered to supply stock from existing inventory (e.g., unbranded bottles held in warehouse). Before spending on new orders, post your exact spec in the group; someone may have stock available locally or willing to courier - **Regional meetups** — if geographically close to another member, collection can be arranged within days rather than waiting for courier lead times **Caveats:** Stock and speed depend entirely on specification (bottle size, shape, colour, closure type). Branded or custom stoppers have longer lead times than unbranded. Email is unreliable for urgent orders — always call suppliers directly. Even "short-term" suppliers typically quote 7–14 days, not next-day delivery.