Berkmann Wine Cellars secures £14m funding package

London-based wine supplier Berkmann Wine Cellars has secured a £14 million funding package from HSBC UK in order to boost its sales and drive overseas expansion.

The family-owned business will use the funds to establish a presence in international markets in order to further its global growth. HSBC’s support will also help Berkmann “to respond to the needs of larger retailers”.

As reported by the drinks business last month, Berkmann is also looking to strengthen its fine wine image both in the on-trade and among private clients. It has recently appointed Guillem Kerambrun, formerly of Caprice Holdings, as its new director of fine wine and private sales.

Kerambrun stated that he believed his sommelier background would aid the company’s approach to customer relationships, an integral part of private sales.

“Fine wine is the most difficult part of the industry,” he told db. “It’s not just about price, notoriety or value for money. The pleasure the wine brings matters – more than quality sometimes.”

Kerambrun said the aim was to create “more of a club, with tastings and dinners and so on. We need to create relationships, a ‘social network’ around wine”.

Commenting on the funding news Rupert Berkmann, director of Berkmann Wine Cellars, said: “HSBC UK has really taken the time to understand our business, the people in the business and our needs for the future. We want to continue our focus on adding value by selling recognised brands and delivering exceptional service. This deal means we are now in a strong financial position to do so.”

Robert Mitton, relationship director for HSBC UK Corporate Banking in West London, added: “Berkmann Wine Cellars is a long-established and successful business with an excellent reputation and a consistently strong financial performance. We’re delighted to have the opportunity to work with the business to help Rupert build on the business’s strong foundations.

“We have established a great relationship with the team in a short space of time, which has given them the confidence to know that we are here to support them with their growth ambitions.”