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.
How do we get our spirits stocked in major UK retailers and distribution platforms?
Members report that pitching to major retailers requires identifying the right buyer contact and understanding their submission windows. For **Specialty Drinks** (spirits distributor), members recommend contacting **Dawn Davies** (dawn@specialitydrinks.com), the Spirits buyer. For **Spirit Kiosk** / **Spirits Beacon** (run by Enotria's digital team since 2020), reach out to **Andrew Trafford** or **Emily Collins** on the buying team; note that the platform's marketing contact is **Richard Weaver** or **Lauren Burfield**. For **Whole Foods UK**, be aware their submission schedule is complex with multiple internal and external deadlines; one member reported they are not running a full range review in the current year, only planning Jan-to-Jan. Members also mention **Nectar** (the loyalty programme) as a listing opportunity, where key accounts include **Cirrus Inns** and **Fullers pubs** (though Cirrus is now under Liberation, requiring direct supply). General advice: identify decision-makers early, understand each retailer's calendar windows, and use the community network to secure warm introductions. One member offered to discuss their recent Tesco pitch experience directly.
What are the key contacts and processes for getting products into major retail venues?
Getting products into major retail chains requires identifying the right buyer and, in some cases, working through established distributors. Here's what members have shared about specific venues: - **Citizen M** — No longer has a dedicated on-site buyer; Amsterdam is now running procurement. If you're already working with **Enotria** (their distributor), communicate through Leo who handles the Citizen M account. - **Tennents (C&C)** — Contact via phone on 0845 601 5959. - **Selfridges (food hall/booze)** — Neil McDonald is the wine, beer and spirits buyer (recently appointed). There isn't a separate buyer for alcohol; it goes through the same person as other food hall categories. **Key tactic:** If a retailer uses a distributor (like Enotria), routing orders through the distributor's contact is more effective than approaching the retailer directly, especially if buyer contact details have become outdated. **Caveat:** Buyer contacts and responsibilities can shift; members recommend verifying current information before outreach, as roles change frequently.