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.
Where can drinks brands source raw ingredients like pink grapefruit, cachaça, rye whisky under bond, and bulk agave syrup?
The community has shared several specific supplier routes for key ingredients: **Pink grapefruit**: Members flagged interest in sourcing but no specific supplier was named in the discussion; this may require direct outreach to produce wholesalers or citrus distributors. **Cachaça producers supplying direct**: A member posted a direct request seeking cachaça producers who can supply direct, but no specific supplier was named in these excerpts. **Rye profile whisky under bond (~£15 per 70cl)**: - **Organic English rye whisky**: One member has 1800L of organic English rye under bond and was open to selling in quantities around 10 cases; contact james@tomsavano.com for details. - **Bottle & Rye**: Mentioned as a potential source. **Bulk agave syrup at low MOQs**: - **Woods**: Supplies 5-litre jerries; price not specified but members calculated that purchasing 5 jerries was cost-effective for their needs. - Direct member inventory: One member has 275kg of agave syrup and indicated spare stock available via DM. **Note**: The pink grapefruit and cachaça sourcing questions generated interest but no concrete suppliers were named in the community discussion, so members may need to follow up directly or tap the WhatsApp group for introductions.
Which suppliers do community members recommend for branded merchandise like ice buckets, aprons, blankets, cool boxes, parasols and paper cups?
Members have shared several go-to suppliers for branded merchandise, each with different strengths: **Ice buckets:** - **Waiters Friend** (waitersfriend.co.uk/product-category/ice-buckets/) — members report good experience - **Outdoor POS** (outdoor-pos.com/products/barware, contact: jelle@outdoor-pos.com) — praised for quick turnaround and low minimum order quantities - **Pedrino** — offered as a short lead time option by a member **Aprons:** - Low MOQ branded aprons can be sourced, though one member suggested asking for Simon Davies (of Chase) as a potential contact for classy options **Blankets and cool boxes:** - **Outdoor POS** also handles these items with low MOQ and quick turnaround **Parasols and paper cups:** - Sourcing parasols and paper cups can be done through Chinese suppliers at the cheapest price point, though lead times are typically 3.5 months - Members noted Chinese sourcing is "much much much cheaper" but require patience on delivery **Note:** Willis was previously recommended by the community for ice buckets but members report recent difficulties getting quotes. Outdoor POS appears to be the current preferred alternative for multiple product categories with shorter lead times and flexible MOQs.
Where can members source key bulk ingredients and bases for drinks production, such as juices, spirits, glycerine, and non-spirits alcohol?
The community has shared several reliable sourcing contacts and suppliers for bulk drinks ingredients: **Juices** - **Eager** — recommended as an affordable wholesaler for bulk juices (orange, pineapple and others); members have used them for years at bars. **White Rum** - **Two Drifters** — contact mentioned as a potential white rum supplier for projects. - **UK-based European rum distillery** — members note access to 7 different white rum marques (molasses and cane fermentations, column/pot/double retort, made in England from scratch). **Non-Spirits Alcohol Bases** - **Bevisol** — specialises in non-NGS (non-grain spirits) alcohol bases for RTD products. They offer low-price neutral cider base. Contact: simon.fletcher@bevisol.com. Simon Fletcher is the key contact. - **Larger contract wineries, cideries and breweries** — members report having contacts available for those seeking provenance-led alcohol bases. **Elderflower Liqueur** - **Michael Mydflower** — recommended as a potential source for elderflower liqueur for cocktail applications; described as "very good liquid." **Caveats:** The discussion excerpts do not contain specific recommendations for dehydrated fruit in bulk, vegetable glycerine sourcing, aged rum for product development, or bulk tequila in IBC containers, despite these being asked questions. Members interested in those should ask directly in the group.
Which label suppliers do members recommend for glass bottles, and what are their contact details?
Members recommend several reliable label suppliers for glass bottles with competitive pricing: - **MCC** — frequently recommended by multiple members - **Label Apeel** — noted as having done "quite a bit of work with other Kindreds" - **Berkshire Labels** — established supplier in the network - **Vale Labels** — used by at least one member - **Reflex** (contact: saral@reflexlabelplus.co.uk) — praised for competitive pricing ("a little cheaper than Berkshire") and responsiveness; Sara at Reflex is noted as "awesome" and has helped members with tight deadlines Members suggest tendering across these suppliers to compare pricing and capability for front, back, and neck labels on glass bottles.
Where can we source branded or custom-decorated glassware, and what are typical turnaround times?
Members recommend several established glassware suppliers for branded products, with varying turnaround times and capabilities. **Key suppliers:** - **Rastal** — mentioned multiple times as a reliable option with quicker turnaround than some competitors; can handle decoration/branding - **Festival Glass** — frequently recommended but noted to have longer lead times (8–12 weeks quoted); capable of branded glassware - **Utopia** — suggested as an alternative for decoration and branding; worth enquiring with - **Artis UK** (https://www.artis-uk.com/) — noted as good quality but slower turnaround - **Drinkstuff** (https://www.drinkstuff.com/products/glassware.asp) — has a great range and works well for smaller runs, but cannot print on designs (less cost-effective) - **Willis Publicity** — mentioned as worth trying, particularly for ice buckets **Turnaround summary:** Rastal appears to offer quicker turnaround than Festival Glass. Members should enquire directly with both to compare current lead times. **Caveats:** Festival Glass does not stock highball glasses in all ranges. Artis UK is reliable but slower. Drinkstuff cannot provide printing on their designs, making them suitable for undecorated stock only.
Where can I find a cream liqueur producer or co-packer?
Several cream liqueur producers and co-packers are active in the UK and Ireland drinks scene. Members recommend: - **Coole Swan** — established Irish cream liqueur brand, well-regarded within the community - **Hensol** — produces vegan cream liqueur using coconut milk base - **Licor43** — supplies Horchata, a vegan cream liqueur made from tiger nut (Spain's no. 1 liqueur brand) - **Creamy Creation** — recommended as a potential supplier - **Niche Drinks** (Northern Ireland) — co-packer with proven track record; members have worked with them successfully - **West Cork distillery** — produces cream liqueurs; available for direct conversation about specific needs - **Custom producer** — One member's company produces cream liqueurs at scale, recently won a silver award for Tequila Strawberry Cream, and manufactures private-label volumes for major retailers. They are open to helping and noted they're shortly expanding dedicated cream production lines. **Important caveat:** Members emphasised that when selecting a producer, **verify they can actually produce the liquid to your specification** — don't assume capability without confirmation. Plant-based/vegan formulations are available if needed.
Where can I source custom paper cups and branded merchandise for brand activations and events?
Members recommend a handful of proven suppliers for custom cups and merchandise. For **cups direct** — competitive pricing if you meet minimum order quantities. For sustainability-focused options, **Go For Green** (goforgreenuk.com) is recommended, with members noting Wayne at GFG as a good contact. For branded merchandise beyond cups, **Bags of Ethics** was used successfully for tote bags, and **Awesome Merch** is also recommended for branded items. One member mentioned **TPI** as an option for cups. Members suggest reaching out directly to these suppliers to discuss your MOQs and design requirements, and note that personal introductions (like Wayne at GFG) can help smooth the process.
Where can UK drinks producers source packaging stock like bottles, corks, and cans from other producers or suppliers?
Members have identified several specific sources for secondary packaging stock, both from industry liquidations and specialist suppliers: **Stock clearance opportunities:** - **Brittains closure stock** — One member had 100,000 corks available (40mm x 12mm, dark wood, natural cork shank 18.5mm, made for herbalist bottles) sourced from Brittains' closure - **Brew and Bottle liquidation** — 100k x 150ml cans available from this company going into liquidation - **Peer-to-peer sourcing** — Members regularly post urgent needs (e.g., 35cl personalised bottles for Christmas orders, 20ml/25ml bottles, white flint Kelfa Apotheker or Herbalist 70cl bottles) in the group; sometimes other members have surplus stock to offload **Specialist packaging suppliers:** - **Propak** — Recommended for branded items like jiggers - **Xilong** (Far East option; +86 182 5869 2627, http://www.xilong-glass.com) — Used occasionally for minis and first runs of new SKUs due to cheap set-up costs. However, members warned that quality control is poor (bottle variance/tolerance greater than European suppliers), bottles often arrive dirty, fill levels vary, payment is upfront (poor cash flow vs. UK terms), and shipping delays eliminate cost savings unless budget allows air freight. Rachel is the contact. Members noted they've since moved all formats back to UK production. **Service providers offering contract solutions:** - **Gorilla Spirits** (near Basingstoke; https://gorillaspirits.co.uk/contract-distilling-bottling/) — Offers production and contract bottling capacity Members emphasise: always check the Kindred group first for liquidation stock and peer offers before placing orders elsewhere. Far East sourcing has hidden costs and cash-flow penalties that often outweigh initial price savings.
Who are recommended photographers for long-term product and lifestyle photography projects?
Members recommend the following photographers who have been used successfully for spirits and drinks product/lifestyle work: - **Ersah Hancer** — recommended by multiple members for product and lifestyle photography. Contact: info@limedigitalmarketing.co.uk. Instagram: @ersahhancer. Described as "great" by those who've worked with him. - **Joe** — mentioned as "great" with a background as an ex-bartender, suggesting familiarity with the drinks industry (requires direct introduction via community). - **Chris** — recommended, requires introduction via community members. Members suggest reaching out directly to community contacts for introductions and portfolio reviews before committing to long-term arrangements.
What UK bottle spraying and glass decoration services are available for small production runs?
For runs over 1,000 bottles, several UK specialist decorators are regularly used by members. Members recommend contacting suppliers directly as pricing and suitability vary significantly based on print complexity, run size, and whether glass is still at the manufacturer. **Recommended suppliers:** - **Dekorprint** (Birmingham) — regularly used for runs >1k; competitive pricing for tinting work, particularly cost-effective through contact Hardeep - **Nolan at Verallia** — used by members for tinting services - **Colorlites** / **Colourite** — used by members depending on project requirements - **Decor** — another option used by members for varying project types - **Glass manufacturer in-house facilities** — worth checking if your glass supplier offers spraying services, as this can avoid transport and wastage costs if decoration happens before the glass leaves the factory **Key considerations members flagged:** - Transport and wastage costs of external decorators can add up; check if your glass manufacturer can spray before delivery - Pricing varies by print complexity and run size, so get quotes from multiple suppliers - For >1k runs of simple tinting, external decorators typically represent the standard route
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.
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 best UK suppliers for enolmatic single-head fillers and bar-friendly glassware with quick delivery?
**Enolmatic single-head fillers:** Members recommend several suppliers for equipment and pricing: - **Derek** (https://www.winegrowers.info/wine-equip/enolmatic/info.htm) — used historically by members - **ACO** — frequently used by members for this equipment - **Vigo** — available but noted as expensive by some - **Liquid Solutions** (callum.mitchell@liquidsolutions.co.uk) — used by members - **Polsinelli** (https://www.polsinelli.it/en/enolmatic-filling-machine-P20.htm) — Italian supplier, but import times currently problematic **Bar-friendly glassware with quick delivery:** - **The Lucky Drinker** (https://theluckydrinker.com/) — recommended for bar-friendly glassware with faster turnaround - **GTR** — member connection available if needed - **Aval Dor** — members in the group work with them and can offer direct support - **8Track** — member connection available (Jeremy Mitchell from Upbeat) **Caveats:** Import times from European suppliers like Polsinelli are currently slow. Direct member introductions to suppliers like Aval Dor and 8Track are available within the community if needed.
Which UK bottle suppliers can supply imported European bottle formats, and what are the alternatives if stock isn't available?
Members looking for European bottle formats (particularly 750ml Dorica) report that UK bottle suppliers often struggle with stock for non-standard formats. Where to look: - **Allied** — recommended by multiple members who've switched to them for bottle supply - **Encirc** — suggested as an alternative when standard suppliers are out of stock - **Erben** — mentioned as another option to try - **Bruni** — Brendan at Bruni reportedly has access to a range of bottles, though availability of specific formats like 750ml Dorica bottles may vary If UK suppliers can't meet your needs, members report importing directly from Europe. For logistics, **DSV** was used for a pallet to Germany at around £300, and members importing from Germany to the UK report costs of approximately £640–£740 per pallet (including admin fees). Lead times and availability remain challenging; one member needed 5 pallets weekly and was still sourcing alternatives.
What suppliers can provide bulk sparkling wine or prosecco for ready-to-drink production?
Members recommended several established UK suppliers for bulk sparkling wine and prosecco for RTD use: - **Della Vite** — mentioned as an available bulk wine supplier - **Chapel Down** — recommended as a local option; members can provide introductions - **Coates & Seeley** — recommended as a local UK supplier; members can facilitate introductions - **Oak and Still** — described as "a very good option" for bulk wine; contact luke@oakandstill.co.uk for enquiries For bulk white wine, the same suppliers are likely options. Members suggest reaching out directly with your requirements, and existing community members are willing to make introductions to streamline the process.
Where can wine bottle closures (shrink capsules and Vinolok) be sourced, particularly in the UK?
Members are actively seeking alternatives to traditional suppliers due to price pressures. **Bruni** has recently increased prices by 25%, prompting searches for other PVC/PET shrink capsule manufacturers. **Seven Tails** closures are sourced through **La Martiniques** in France, where they are assembled; this supplier offers competitive pricing on bulk orders due to aggregated buying across multiple brand labels. For **Vinolok** closures specifically, members have mentioned sourcing from **Berlin** (likely referring to a German supplier, though details are limited). **Prowein** (the trade show) has been referenced as a venue where members have made valuable supplier connections and visited facilities. For logistics support, **Hillebrand** (contact: diana.estelanecochea@hillebrandgori.com) has been used successfully for international shipments, including samples to Italy and shipments to Dubai, at approximately £100 for 2 × 70cl bottles from London. **UPS** is another option members have used for sample shipments. Members suggest coordinating shipment costs with peers attending Prowein to split shipping expenses.
Where can we source tamper-proof seals and heat-shrink caps for spirits bottles?
Members recommend reaching out directly within the community for supplier contacts, as several people have established relationships with tamper-proof seal and heat-shrink cap providers. **Direct peer introductions** — Multiple members indicated they have good contacts for tamper-proof seals and heat-shrink cap styles. The recommended approach is to message these members directly for introductions. **Existing inventory** — Members occasionally have surplus glass, stoppers, and heat-shrink supplies available from previous large-volume purchases, which can be sourced at cost-plus pricing. These are typically held in warehouse stock (e.g. Midlands-based distribution) and sold by the pallet. Note: The discussion suggests **Bobbins and Berlin** was a previous supplier option, but members indicated this source no longer has adequate stock or suitable replacements, which is why alternative sourcing became necessary.
What design agencies and designers do members recommend for rebranding and packaging projects?
Members recommend several designers and agencies with direct experience in drinks rebranding and packaging: - **WeLaunch** (Stuart Lang) — recommended for rebrand and packaging work; members note they're also happy to provide introductions - **Aitch Creates** (harry@aitchcreates.com, https://aitchcreates.com/portfolio/) — designer recommended by members - **Buddy Creative** (mark@buddycreative.com, https://buddycreative.com) — noted as "worth a shout" - **Max Agace** (http://www.maxagace.com) — highly rated ("👌🏼") For relabelling services on existing stock (e.g. cans), members also mention **Codex Solutions** — described as "very flexible" for ad hoc duty-paid relabelling work, and **WeLaunch** can facilitate introductions to relabelling suppliers. No detailed pricing or lead-time information was shared in the discussion.
What are the best suppliers for branded equipment like magnetic signage, printed boards, and promotional jigging tools?
Members have had mixed success finding high-quality branded equipment domestically and internationally. Here are the specific suppliers and approaches mentioned: **For printed boards and signage:** - **Pixartprinting** — recommended for custom aluminium printed boards, handles custom sizes and shapes - **Vistaprint** — suggested for smaller orders if you don't need large MOQs - **uk.staci.com** — offers sourcing to storage and fulfilment services for major players; MOQs unclear from discussion **For jigging tools and promotional equipment:** - **Alibaba suppliers** — one member sourced via Alibaba and reported significantly better quality at roughly 1/3 of UK pricing, though they emphasised they had only received samples at that point and couldn't yet confirm service levels or full delivery quality **Key caveats:** Members noted particular difficulty finding high-quality branded equipment at reasonable prices through UK suppliers alone, which is why some are exploring international options. If using overseas suppliers, allow time for sample approval before committing to larger orders, as service levels and final quality can vary. No detailed lead time data was provided in the discussion, so it's worth requesting this directly from suppliers when quoting.
What are the best suppliers for bulk lime juice (100L+)?
Members recommend contacting fresh citrus juice suppliers directly for bulk orders. - **Juiced in Time** (Instagram: @juicedintimefm) — offers freshly squeezed lime juice - **+44 7766 279563** — a Chiswick-based operator who presses lemons and limes; can handle bulk volumes - **Fresh Citrus MCR** (freshcitrusmcr.co.uk) — described as "great" by members for citrus juice supply Members recommend reaching out via the contact details or social channels above to discuss your specific volume requirements (100L+). Direct contact allows for negotiation on pricing and delivery for bulk orders.
Where can drinks brands source bulk wine and wine ingredients for ready-to-drink production?
Members have identified several routes for bulk wine sourcing. The community recommends reaching out directly to members who have existing supplier relationships, as several have offered introductions via DM. **Good Food Wines in Kent** has been recommended as a direct supplier option. Members also note that **Mother's Ruin Distilling Co** acts as a bulk wine supplier and purchases on behalf of other brands—they can facilitate introductions. For international supply (e.g., Estonia), members have reported having contacts in Italy who can support logistics, though availability varies by destination. The best approach appears to be networking within the community for warm introductions rather than cold outreach, as members with existing relationships are willing to connect others.
Which label printers do members recommend for UK drinks packaging?
Members recommend several reputable label printers with direct contacts: - **Reflex Labels** — described as "awesome" and going "over and above". Contact: Sara Lane, saral@reflexlabelplus.co.uk, 07736 925860 - **Eclipse** — praised as "great" - **Berkshire Labels** — described as "decent". Contact: raluca.balcanu@berkshirelabels.co.uk These are the suppliers members have had direct positive experience with and are willing to recommend to peers.
Which business energy suppliers do members recommend for hospitality and on-trade premises?
Finding an energy supplier willing to work with hospitality venues can be challenging, though the market has improved. Members recommend: - **Octopus Energy** — praised as the go-to choice for several members. Easy to deal with, offers a solid back-of-house system to check readings, bills, and tariffs. - **YU** — used by members at bar premises. Caveats: **Avoid Valda** — one member reported a severe experience, describing it as a "Kafkaesque nightmare" where the supplier attempted to overcharge by £10,000. When last renewing, supplier availability for hospitality businesses was limited, though members expect this to have improved.
Who can recommend a Shopify store designer or developer for drinks brands?
Members have recommended several reliable contacts for Shopify redesign work: - **Harry at Digital Touch** — currently working with a member, praised as "great". Contact: +44 7473 493007 or info@digitaltouch.org - **SBS** — described as "decent" for Shopify work - **Oliver (designer)** — oliver@middlename.co.uk was used by a member and can be approached for design work - **South Africa-based web agency** — highly recommended by multiple members for cost-effectiveness due to exchange rates, reported to have built "half of Kindred Shopify stores". Available via direct introduction from community members. Members suggest clarifying whether you need a designer, developer, or both before reaching out, as requirements differ. The South African agency option is worth exploring if budget is a priority.
Where can we source natural wood head cork stoppers with short lead times?
Members have identified a few reliable suppliers for cork stoppers when lead times are tight. - **Labrenta** — recommended as a direct contact (Alessandro D'Ospina, alessandro.dospina@labrenta.com) - **Bostocap** — noted for quick orders of branded stoppers; members recommend calling rather than emailing (Chris Lancksweert, chris@bostocap.com) - **Vetro Elite** — members have secured corks within a week from this supplier - **Rawlings** — mentioned as an option - **Berlin Packaging** — available but noted as difficult to reach via email; calling is recommended Members also note that community members occasionally have stock available directly (e.g. unbranded stoppers in various specs), so it's worth asking in the group if you have specific requirements. **Caveat:** Lead times and availability vary by specification (diameter, material, branding). Colour and exact dimensions matter—one member's stock was rejected because the stopper was too dark for their application.
Where can I source pink grapefruit peel for production?
Members report that finding pink grapefruit peel suppliers can be challenging. When sourcing, clarify whether you need actual peel or oil, as this affects your supplier options. Recommended suppliers to contact: - **Beacon** — reportedly contacted but unavailable for pink grapefruit peel - **Star Spice** — reportedly contacted but unavailable for pink grapefruit peel - **KrauterMix** — suggested as an alternative option to try Members recommend reaching out directly rather than relying on LinkedIn outreach to avoid excessive contact attempts.
What are the best suppliers for pop-up bar systems that are quick to assemble and disassemble?
Members recommend several specialist pop-up bar suppliers that prioritise ease of setup and portability: - **Oasis Bars** — praised as a reliable option; members have messaged them directly for quotes - **Rapid Bars** — specifically noted for fitting in the back of a car, making them highly portable; several members have used them and received quotes - **Lixr** — mentioned as having good bar options; the company has posted directly in the community before - **Lazy Joes** — another option members have used - **Grumpy Joes** — listed as a supplier option The recommendation is to message or email multiple suppliers to compare quotes and find the best fit for your needs. At least one member received a quote from Rapid Bars and confirmed it was worth the effort.
Where can I source cask racks and barrel storage solutions in the UK?
Members have found two practical approaches to maximizing barrel storage: **Direct supplier:** - **Speyside Cooperage** — supplies cask racks and stands. Contact: Ellie Jamieson, 01340 881264. Members report this as a reasonable-priced option. **DIY/repurposing approach:** - **Standard pallet racking with strapping** — can accommodate 2 bourbon barrels lying down and strapped per pallet, making efficient use of existing warehouse infrastructure. - **Extra shelving** — members found this cheaper than purpose-built cask racks in some cases, though this depends on your storage setup and barrel dimensions. The key trade-off: purpose-built racks from Speyside Cooperage offer dedicated design but require budget; pallet racking or shelving solutions are lower-cost but require more manual optimization for vertical space efficiency.
What are the best suppliers for branded wine glasses?
Members recommend several established suppliers for branded wine glasses: - **Festival Glass** (festivalglass.co.uk) — recommended by the community - **Utopia** — a standard choice for branded glassware - **Rastal** — another established supplier used by members - **Alibaba** — mentioned as an option, though typically for bulk overseas sourcing Members suggest checking these suppliers for options on custom wine glass branding. No specific pricing, lead times, or MOQs were discussed in the community thread.
Where can I find reliable glass bottle suppliers for custom lightweight bottle shapes?
Members facing urgent glass sourcing challenges recommend reaching out to established suppliers and intermediaries who can help navigate current stock constraints. Key contacts and options: - **Allied Glass (Leeds)** — contact John, their UK sales director; also has an "Emerging brands" division that may offer solutions - **Spiritbridge** — has a strong network for sourcing custom bottles; members recommend emailing support@spiritbridge.io or dropping a direct note to Jonathan for assistance - **Oliver** — mentioned as having a great network for glass sourcing (contact details not provided in discussion) - **Drinks Aisle** — another potential supplier to contact (specific contact details not shared) - **Secondary market/excess stock** — members occasionally have surplus bottles available (e.g. discontinued Herbalist/Duppy bottles); worth asking in the community if you need immediate inventory **Important context:** Members noted significant global stock shortages in early 2024, with some suppliers facing 6+ month out-of-stock periods. It's advisable to have conversations with intermediaries like Spiritbridge or established suppliers with diverse networks (Allied Glass, Oliver) who may have contingency options or access to alternative lightweight shapes that match your requirements.
What practical advice and contacts should new bar owners know about when opening in the current economic climate?
Members with bar and taproom experience are willing to offer mentorship to new bar owners, though expect candid, realistic guidance given current market conditions. Key practical recommendations from the community: **Mentorship & peer advice** - Several experienced bar owners in the group have offered to share learnings via direct messages. This appears to be the most valued resource—real conversations with people who've navigated recent openings. **Suppliers & services** - **Risdon and Risdon** — recommended for branded aprons; used by multiple bars and Everleaf (the alcohol-free spirit brand). - **Gallagher** — recommended as a reliable business insurance broker for hospitality. - **NFU** — members use for employer liability insurance. **Logistics support** - Stretch tent/marquee suppliers can fall through at the last minute; having backup contacts in this space is advisable for events like Pub in the Park activations. **Caveats** - The economic climate is presenting genuine headwinds. Mentors emphasize delivering realistic, not optimistic, perspectives on current trading conditions and costs.
Where can we source good quality whole dried botanical ingredients for spirits production?
Members consistently recommend two specialist suppliers for whole dried botanicals: - **Beacon Commodities** — highly praised as a reliable go-to source; multiple members recommend them enthusiastically. - **Organic Herb Trading** — recommended for quality and ethical practice; members note they "really look after their suppliers," suggesting reliable traceability and fair-trade credentials. Both suppliers appear to be trusted within the community for consistent quality and reliability in whole dried ingredient sourcing.
Who can help improve an RTD recipe, and what liquid development support is available?
Members recommend reaching out to **Sam Pembridge** as a liquid developer who can assist with RTD recipe improvement and development. This appears to be a go-to contact within the community for recipe refinement work on ready-to-drink products.
Which suppliers should we use for branded merchandise, and what are typical prices for branded sample cups?
Members recommend two specific suppliers for branded merchandise: - **Awesome Merchandise** — praised for good quality and quick turnaround on branded clothing items - **Go For Green** (contact: Wayne Whoriskey) — endorsed multiple times by members as very good, with Wayne specifically highlighted as excellent to work with For branded sample cups specifically, members were asked about fair pricing and suppliers but the community discussion does not contain concrete pricing ranges or specific cup suppliers. Members confirmed Go For Green as a good option but did not provide sample cup pricing details in the excerpts provided.
What are the best suppliers for bespoke gift packaging and miniature bottle gift packs?
Members recommend several specialist packaging suppliers for bespoke gift solutions: - **Falconer** — bespoke gift pack and box supplier; contact Troy Kinney (Troyk@falconerprint.co.Uk) - **Bristol Boxes & Packaging** — recommended for miniature (5cl) gift pack work; members can request an introduction - **Andrey** (based in Bordeaux, France) — high-end packaging designer specialising in wine and spirits packaging with exceptional design work; available at https://www.behance.net/gallery/72759205/OLD-TOM-GIN-1821-St-Andrews; noted as comparable to premium designers like Stranger and Stranger but at a fraction of the cost Members specifically sought alternatives to Playford for 5cl miniature gift pack card products, and Bristol Boxes & Packaging was highlighted as a working alternative in this space. Andrey's portfolio demonstrates luxury-level packaging design and he is currently available for new projects.
Where can I sell or dispose of surplus inventory like old label stock effectively?
When you have excess stock with good shelf life that you need to move, members suggest several practical routes. **Specialist stock buyers:** - **JA Cox and Sons** (Derby area) — members recommend contacting them for purchasing unwanted stock, though be prepared that prices won't be premium - **Stocks** (Manchester) — another established contact for moving surplus inventory **Alternative channels:** - **Subscription boxes** — considered a viable solution for moving old stock - **Standon** — mentioned as a potential outlet (though context suggests this may be informal/trade show related) **Other approaches:** - Consider reaching out via direct message to community members who may have relevant industry contacts or buyers within their networks - Be clear about your product specs when inquiring, as suitability matters **Caveat:** Don't expect high prices from liquidation buyers — this is essentially a clearance play rather than a revenue-generating sale.
Which printer suppliers in London can handle correx boards and paper assets with reliable turnaround?
Members in the London area recommend **Form Graphics** for reliable printing work including correx boards and general paper assets. The contact is Peter Stead at peter@formgraphics.co.uk. Members also mention **Petes** as a good option for general printing needs. Shoreditch-based members found these suppliers offer helpful systems and reasonable turnaround for London-based orders. Note: one member's experience with a printer (details unclear from the discussion) was poor on the buying side, so vetting individual suppliers against your specific needs is advisable.
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.
Where should UK drinks manufacturers source custom glass bottles from outside Europe?
Members recommend reaching out to established suppliers with manufacturing operations in lower-cost regions, particularly China. **Key suppliers mentioned:** - **Rockwood Glass** (olivier@rockwood-glass.com) — Highly regarded China-based manufacturer. Used by major spirits producers including Diageo. Offers significantly lower mould costs compared to European suppliers, though MOQs are relatively high. Worth contacting directly to discuss volume requirements. - **UniquePak** (travis@uniquepak.au) — Australian company with owned factories in China. Can handle custom bottle production with potentially more flexible terms. **What members valued:** Low-ish MOQs are important if you're a smaller producer, so clarify your volume needs upfront. Both suppliers mentioned have track records with established drinks brands, suggesting reliability despite the geographical distance.
How can I source bespoke glass stoppers from Asian manufacturers?
Members recommend reaching out directly to community contacts who have established relationships with Asian glass manufacturers. - **Direct contact via community network** — Members with existing partnerships offer to make introductions. Several members noted they have active supplier relationships for glass heads/stoppers and are happy to facilitate introductions via DM. - **One-to-one calls with experienced members** — Those who have recently completed sourcing (within the last few months) are available to share process details and supplier contacts on a call. The approach is brokered through private introductions rather than open sourcing platforms. No specific manufacturer names or pricing details were shared in the discussion, but members indicated the process is straightforward enough that they retain "a lot of the detail still to hand" after completing their own sourcing.
Which illustrators or design agencies would members recommend for brand illustration and design work?
Members have had good experiences with a small number of suppliers. **Bowimi** is used by at least one member and described as 'really good'; note that they have a tenacious sales team. For illustrated book work, members can facilitate introductions to a kids' book illustrator. **Anspach and Hobday** are known to work directly with illustrators rather than going through agencies—members recommend speaking to them about their approach and contacts. One member has a close connection at Bowimi (Ian Arands) who may be a useful point of contact. The group prefers direct relationships with illustrators over agency intermediaries where possible.
Which suppliers do members recommend for branded merchandise like tees, hoodies, and parasols?
Members recommend several established suppliers for quality branded clothing merch, each with different strengths: - **Merchery** — high-quality option with partnerships with major brands like Patagonia, though premium pricing. - **Rapanui** (rapanuiclothing.com) — specialises in recycled and organic cotton; members suggest their design-your-own service. - **Teemill** — another recycled/organic cotton option mentioned alongside Rapanui. - **Avallen** — noted as sustainable with zero minimum order quantities. Caveat: prints can fade quickly if designs aren't blocky; best suited for solid, graphic approaches. - **Mate Kustom Clothing** — described as "superb" by members, with at least one member offering direct introductions to the owner. On branded parasols, the discussion did not yield specific supplier recommendations from the community. **Caveats:** Members prioritising sustainability have found success with Avallen and Rapanui/Teemill, though this may trade off against the premium positioning of Merchery. The quality and durability vary by supplier and design approach.
Who do members recommend for freelance pitch deck design, and what are typical pricing expectations?
Members recommend **Jimmy Hunter at Noisy Design** (Creative Director, wearenoisy.co.uk, +44 (0) 7912 517 074) as a reliable freelance designer for pitch deck work. He is described as "reasonably priced" compared to other market quotes members have received. The community notes that mentioning a referral from an existing client may help with negotiations.
Which suppliers can provide bulk botanical ingredients like juniper in half-tonne to full-tonne quantities?
**Star Spice** is the recommended supplier for bulk botanicals at large volumes. Multiple members have used them consistently and praised the service. Jim at Star Spice handles orders ranging from 10kg up to tonne quantities, making them suitable for serious bulk botanical sourcing including juniper. Members who have worked with Star Spice describe them as reliable and recommend reaching out directly. One member mentioned **Beacon Commodities** as a potential alternative, though no direct experience or feedback from the community was provided in the discussion.
Which contract bottlers can handle small-volume alcohol-free (AF) production runs?
Members recommend **Black Bridge** (contact Ashley Black Bridge) as a reliable contract bottler capable of handling AF production. For smaller volumes in the 5–10k range, direct outreach to bottlers with AF capability is essential, as not all operators routinely handle alcohol-free runs. Members also note that glass sourcing can be challenging for small orders; if you need standard sizes like 5cl, 200ml, or 700ml screwcap bottles, it's worth asking your network directly—members sometimes have excess stock available (Apotheker and Chiara Glass formats have been spotted in members' warehouses).
Where can emergency supplies of glucose syrup be sourced quickly during peak periods?
When last-minute supplier issues strike during busy periods, members recommend: - **BCB** — cited as a reliable emergency go-to for glucose syrup - **Kent Foods** — suggested as another option for quick-turnaround specialty ingredient supply Members note that timing matters: Wednesday and Thursday are described as better days to place urgent orders, as they tend to be quieter than Friday/Saturday and allow for faster turnaround.
Which suppliers offer small-run customised wooden gift boxes for spirits brands?
Members have successfully sourced small-run customised wooden gift boxes through specialist suppliers. For runs as small as 25 units: - **Wine Box Company (WBC)** — www.wbc.co.uk — noted as having no minimum order requirement, making them suitable for small-batch orders. - **Custom engraving service** — Members have also used independent engravers who will work on boxes you've already purchased and send to them, offering flexibility if you source blanks elsewhere. When approaching suppliers for small quantities, be clear about your run size upfront (e.g., 25 units) to confirm they can accommodate. Members recommend checking lead times before committing.
How can I source discontinued or hard-to-find spirit ingredients when my usual suppliers run out?
When standard suppliers can't fulfill orders for discontinued or rare spirits, members recommend reaching out to specialist drinks development and contract manufacturing contacts who may have stock or alternatives. **Key contacts and approaches:** - **Tom Hurst** — tried as a first port of call for hard-to-source spirits, though success varies - **Canify (London)** — members can make introductions for ingredient sourcing and RTD/canning support - **Riviera Drinks** — experienced in own-label projects and multiple pack formats; contact rdarfi@rivieradrinks.co.uk or phone - **Sam Pembridge** — recommended as a drinks development specialist who may help locate alternatives or reformulate **Caveat:** Members noted that popular discontinued products like Rockstar Passion Fruit Grenade become widely unavailable once production ends—"most people are sold out." In these cases, reformulation or alternative ingredients may be the only practical route rather than locating existing stock.
Where can you source cocktail bartending equipment and bar accessories in bulk?
Members recommend a couple of established one-stop shops for bulk cocktail equipment and bar accessories. - **Cocktail Kingdom** — praised as a reliable one-stop shop that makes sourcing straightforward. Their website is www.cocktailkingdom.com and they stock strainers and other bar accessories. - **Urban Bar** — listed as an alternative supplier, available at www.urbanbar.com - **Nisbets** — recommended for glass-fronted display fridges and refrigeration equipment, though they stock simple stainless steel models. Members noted that decorated or customised fridges from Nisbets have prices that increase significantly. Members noted that while Cocktail Kingdom and Urban Bar may not be the absolute best on every metric, they're valued for convenience and reducing the friction of sourcing from multiple suppliers.
Where can founders source co-packers for pre-batched cocktail production?
Several members in the community offer contract manufacturing services for pre-batched cocktails in bottles: - **Bone Idyll** — Contact Sam@boneidyll.co.uk for co-packing inquiry - **Mothership Scotland** — The team behind Bramble offer pre-batched cocktail production; visit mothershipscotland.com for details - **Custom Spirit** — Contact Callum@customspirit.co for co-packing services Members recommend reaching out directly to these suppliers to discuss your specific requirements and production volumes.