Bunch up in number as Lea & Sandeman joins

The latest member of UK independent merchant group The Bunch was revealed last week as Lea & Sandeman was officially announced as the sixth Bunch member.

As the drinks business reported in September, The Bunch has been on the lookout for at least one new member, particularly since Lay & Wheeler relinquished its membership following its acquisition by Majestic earlier this year.

“Delighted” Charles Lea of Lea & Sandeman said: “We hope that Lea & Sandeman will be able to contribute to the overall mission of The Bunch to convert buyers to interesting wines that have not been dumbed-down, and which are drinkable to the bottom of the bottle.”

Spearheading the research into finding a new member was Bunch chairman, Jason Yapp. He said: "We are delighted that Lea & Sandeman has joined The Bunch.

"They are terrific ambassadors for the independent wine trade with a wonderful appreciation of proper growers’ wines and an excellent understanding of the requirements of the 21st century wine lover.  

"They will make a valued addition to our membership and we look forward to liaising closely with them in future,” he added.

The five other members of The Bunch, which champions the causes of both the independent wine trade as well as individual grower wines, includes Adnams, Berry Bros. & Rudd, Corney & Barrow, Tanners and Yapp Brothers.

Jane Parkinson, 23.11.2009