Boutinot plans ambitious expansion

Wine producer, importer and distributor Boutinot is due for global expansion this year, setting its sights on vineyards in the Rhône Valley, South Africa and Spain.

The company, which supplies to supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Marks & Spencer and Waitrose, as well as independent shops and restaurants, currently owns wineries in France, Italy and South Africa.

“We are constantly looking at acquisitions and are particularly interested in opportunities in the Rhône Valley and South Africa," said managing director Dennis Whiteley.

“We have a joint venture with a producer in Italy which has proved very successful, and we are looking for a similar arrangement in Spain.

Boutinot, which has a portfolio of over 800 wines, has invested more than £15 million in new equipment, vineyards and wineries over the last three years.

The firm posted a £6m rise in revenues to a record £75m for the 12 months to September, and is on course to top £80m this year.

Success in emerging markets such as India and China helped fuel last year’s growth.

“The wine market has had a tough time over the last couple of years, but it is still growing and we are increasing our market share by concentrating on quality," said Whiteley.

“We produce more than 50% of the wine we sell, which gives us great control over the finished product," Whitely added.

Lucy Shaw, 07.02,2011