Virgin to merge with Warehouse Wines

Online wine retailer Virgin Wines is to join forces with offline wine specialist Warehouse Wines in a merger that will create one of the largest growing independent retailers in the wine industry.

The merged company is expected to become a fully multi-channel marketing organisation, capitalising upon Virgin’s presence in the online sector and Warehouse Wines’ offline experience.

Operating under the Virgin Wines brand name, the joint venture will retain offices in both Preston and Norwich in the UK and will keep on all existing staff.  

Jay Wright, managing director of Virgin Wines and founder of Warehouse Wines, said: “I am are delighted to announce that Warehouse Wines has teamed up with Virgin Wines. Over the last 18 months, since I have been running both Virgin Wines and Warehouse Wines, I’ve been so impressed with both companies that I couldn’t wait to combine the very best bits from them both to make one incredible ‘super’ business.  

“These are two fantastic companies in their own right but combined will create an even bigger and better company, offering unrivalled wines at the very best prices, along with award winning customer service. I am extremely excited by the future that lies ahead.”

Wright founded Warehouse Wines in 2000. He became managing director of Virgin Wines and Averys of Bristol in June 2008, while continuing to run Warehouse Wines. All three companies are part of the Direct Wines group.

Alan Lodge, 04.11.2009