Amathus snaps up Oddbins sites

UK wholesaler Amathus Drinks is expanding into retail following the purchase of two former Oddbins stores in London.

Located in the City and Soho, both stores are due to open in September after refurbishment. The high footfall of both areas and the spending power of the City clientele gave Amathus the confidence that it can succeed where Oddbins failed.

“We see this as a slight diversification but further development of the business we usually transact,” explained Harry Georgiou, managing director of Amathus.

“Much of our interest will be in corporate sales as well as targeting discerning consumers as we aim to further establish Amathus as a multi-faceted high quality drinks company.”

The two stores will provide a further outlet for Amathus’ portfolio of spirits agencies, which includes Marolo grappa, Del Maguey mezcal, Van Wees genever, Pappy Van Winkle bourbon, Germana cachaça, Cartron liqueurs and eaux de vie, Heering liqueurs, Laird’s Applejack apple brandy, Château de Breuil Calvados, as well as pisco from 1615 and Payet.

However, Harry Georgiou, managing director of Amathus, noted: ”We are particularly excited at the opportunity these outlets will offer our wine category development, which is enjoying a substantial renaissance.”

The past few years have seen Amathus build a selection of over 30 exclusive agencies from the Old and New World. These include Louis Sipp from Alsace, Idiom from Stellenbosch, Domaine Moillard in Burgundy and Evergreen Vineyards from Oregon.

The retail wine range will also feature a selection of what Georgiou described as “boutique, quirky or classic icon wines”, which will be brought in from other importers or via auction.

Amathus used to operate a retail business during the ‘80s and ‘90s, before deciding to concentrate its focus on nationwide wholesale.