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 trade shows deliver the best ROI for drinks brands: ProWein, Sial, Anuga, Berlin Cocktails, and Foodies Festivals?
ProWein has proven productive for members—one member noted strong returns from Seven Tails. Berlin Cocktails (BCB) is worth attending for meetings and networking with international distributors, but opinions on exhibiting vary: one member has maintained a stand since 2018 with great returns, while others found it overpriced, disorganised, and difficult to stand out alone. The show is most valuable for year-round partner reviews, meeting new distributors across multiple countries, and accessing industry networking events—less valuable if pursuing German domestic distribution. A collaborative Kindred stand was suggested as a way to solve visibility issues and create buzz. Foodies Festivals received consistently negative feedback on ROI. Members described them as expensive to exhibit at with no guaranteed footfall, attracting crowds primarily interested in free samples rather than brand engagement. One member lost money at Bristol Foodies (2023) but profited at Exeter thanks to higher-spending attendees and good weather. The consensus is to be highly selective, negotiate pitch fees aggressively, and avoid unless you can secure a discounted late-minute spot or identify a specific festival with proven higher-quality footfall in your category.
What industry associations and networking events are available for drinks-industry founders, particularly those looking to connect with the on-trade?
Members recommend a mix of formal industry bodies and community-led events for networking with the on-trade. **Formal associations:** - **British Distillers Association** — mentioned as a relevant membership organisation - **WSTA (Wine and Spirit Trade Association)** — praised for being helpful and supportive - **B Corp** — listed as an industry organisation worth considering **Networking approach:** Members emphasised that the most effective way to network with the on-trade is direct, grassroots engagement: spend time in bars, attend trade shows, and build brands from the bottom up. This hands-on approach is seen as more valuable than relying solely on formal association events. **Community events:** - **Kindred Spirits events** — the Kindred Collective itself hosts networking opportunities, including the Kindred Awards show (annual event) and social outings like golf days, which provide informal networking opportunities with fellow independent drinks founders. **Note:** The discussion suggests on-trade networking is less about formal association-hosted events and more about direct relationship-building in bars and at trade shows, supplemented by founder-community gatherings.
Is ProWein worth attending as a UK drinks producer, and what should we expect from the experience?
Yes, ProWein is worth attending. Members describe it as "the big one" and emphasise its value for meeting international distributors and getting noticed in the market. Members' experience: - **International distributor meetings** — the primary draw; members report it's worth attending specifically for this networking opportunity. - **Exhibiting with peers** — several members attended with co-exhibitors (e.g. exhibiting alongside other brands on shared or nearby stands) to share costs and drive traffic. - **PR value** — attending and exhibiting generates coverage and brand visibility in the trade press. Caveats: The discussion doesn't detail specific costs, stand fees, lead conversion rates, or practical logistics. Members confirm attendance but offer limited detail on ROI or typical visitor volume.
Where can members find podcast equipment and studio space for rent?
Members recommend reaching out to community connections and established venues that offer studio hire. **Brew Dog** operates a podcast studio available for hire in Waterloo. **Paddington Works** has podcast equipment available for member use. Members also suggest asking within the network for personal referrals—one member offered to connect others with a contact who can help source equipment and studio access. The best approach is to check with other Kindred members first, as several have existing setups or supplier relationships they can share.
What are the realistic revenue prospects for participating in industry pub and trade events?
Revenue from pub and trade events is inconsistent and depends heavily on event selection and format. Members report a **feast or famine** pattern when simply selling bottles, making it difficult to turn a profit unless you commit significant budget to running a full bar operation. **Tom Kerridge Pub in the Park** (specifically the Marlow location) was highlighted as one of the few events worth considering, though even then cash flow can be unpredictable. Events like **Brew LDN** are attended primarily for brand visibility and networking rather than direct revenue generation—members use them as opportunities to connect with other industry founders and host post-event social gatherings rather than rely on bar sales. The value appears to be more in relationship-building and brand presence than immediate financial return.