Wine supplier cites dynamic response as a corking plan

By Ben Gartside AT THE turn of the year, Michael Moriarty at Boutinot Wines was optimistic. The grape grower and wine supplier was exporting to about 50 countries and had an investment plan in place to capitalise on its growth.

“We were geared to take advantage of [growth in the UK], while continuing to invest in our vineyards in France and South Africa, and concentrated significant development into our winery in Sussex,” said Moriarty.

This growth continued solidly until mid-march when the impact of Covid-19 started to cause Moriarty serious concern, particularly within the restaurants and bars trade both in the UK and internationally.

“As a result of the pandemic, we had to dial down the investment plan and focused on supporting our trade customers in the UK,” he said. Unlike others, Boutinot was lucky as the business is not overly reliant on restaurants and bars – and an increase in demand from retail customers meant it could take advantage of growth there.

While there were not many new customers, Moriarty said the pandemic meant retail demand skyrocketed, although a significant chunk of his sales disappeared.

“We were quick to assess the disruption to our business and its financial impact before the Government announced lockdown,” he said. “We also contacted our bank, HSBC, which was quick to work through a financial support package with us and has been totally supportive throughout.”

Moriarty said the recent announcements from the Government “have not given us the certainty we would have liked”, yet he remains confident of continued success in the future.

“By remaining nimble, talking to our key partners and keeping a dynamic plan to move with the ever-changing situation, we will be a stronger business when this is all over.”