Business appointments: Forbes for Argentina

Wines of Argentina has chosen James Forbes, previously senior buyer of UK wine retailer Oddbins, to head up the generic body’s UK office. He will take up the position on August 1, although the new office will not be officially open until September 1.

Forbes was buyer at Oddbins for North and South America, South Africa, Italy, Austria and Germany, as well as spirits.

Wines of Argentina chose Forbes for his sound commercial acumen, detailed product knowledge, in-depth understanding of the UK market and experience of category and brand development. Forbes said, “My role will be to provide a coherent interface between the Argentine wine industry and the press, on- and off-trade buyers, agents, and consumers in the UK.

“What I want to show is that Argentine wine can compete in its own right in the UK market. The reality of today’s market is all about discount and international grape varieties. Tomorrow will be about authenticity, genuine value for money and diversity of style and grapes. Argentina ticks all of these boxes and this, allied to the passion and heritage of its wine industry, is what will set it apart in an increasingly crowded market.”

“We believe James is the right person to run the UK office of Wines of Argentina and we wish him great success in this challenging role,” said Fernando Farré, managing director for Wines of Argentina, who will be receiving Forbes in Argentina in August.

© db July 2006