IWSC opens Independent Retailer of the Year award

The International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) has launched its quest to find the UK’s best Independent Wine and Spirits Retailer.

The award, now in its seventh year, is sponsored by international wine and spirit exhibition ProWein and recognises the key role played by independent merchants in encouraging the understanding, and sales, of quality wines and spirits.

Last year, the award went to Birmingham wine merchant Loki Wines and in 2013 was awarded to Belfast’s oldest independent wine merchant, Direct Wine Shipments.

“It’s important to acknowledge the work achieved by independent wine and spirit retailers which encourage and educate consumers about wines and spirits”, said Ewan Lacey, the IWSC’s general manager. “This year we really want customers to get involved in the judging and vote for their favourite independent.”

While retailers enter the competition themselves, customers can vote for their favourite nominees online. After voting closes the top retailers are judged by a panel of industry experts at the International Wine and Spirit Competition.

The deadline for initial entries for independent retailers is 10 April, with customer voting opening on 27 April. Customers have until the 22 May to vote for their favourite retailer, and all votes will be entered into a prize draw for a mixed case of wine.

After the votes are counted, a final shortlist will be revealed in the week of 8 June, with the judging of the final lineup taking place shortly after. The winner will be announced at the IWSC Awards Banquet at the Guildhall on 26 November.

To nominate your retail business visit the IWSC stall Hall 9 – Stand G18 at ProWein between 15 – 17 March, or online at iwsc.net/independent-retailer.

Follow the competition and join in the conversation at #iwscbestindie