UK supermarket becomes Principal Supporter to IMW

Waitrose has joined AXA Millésimes and the Austrian Wine Marketing Board as a Principal Supporter to The Institute of Masters of Wine.

The UK supermarket chain is already a long-standing supporter of the Institute, and is increasing its commitment in order to support the Institute’s worldwide education programme.

“Waitrose is well-known for its focus on quality and integrity, and is widely respected for its multi-award winning wine offering,” said Lynne Sherriff MW, chairman of the IMW.

“This commitment by Waitrose demonstrates the strength of the relationship that exists between us, and we are very grateful to them for their continuing support,” she added.

Continuing, she commented, “The Institute itself is a community of members, so we are delighted to be working closely with one of the UK’s most famous partnership organisations.”

Pierpaolo Petrassi MW of Waitrose, explained, “Waitrose is very pleased to be able to assist with the Institute’s work, and is proud to support such a prestigious organisation.

“The Institute of Masters of Wine not only stands for excellence in wine education; it is also a body of experts and enthusiasts that gives a great deal to the global wine community.”

The Institute is a not for profit organisation and its international family of supporters plays a vital role in assisting the delivery of its examination, study and events programmes.  

Each Institute supporter helps to fund a specific area of activity, which is usually aligned with their own corporate objectives.

Waitrose has been hosting some of the Institute’s educational seminars at the John Lewis Partnership’s Odney Club in Cookham, Berkshire for several years.

The Institute currently has 298 students enrolled in 23 countries, and the support of Waitrose will assist in preparing them for the annual Masters of Wine examination.