David Gleave is looking forward to some well earned rest over the festive period and an even busier and challenging year ahead.
Pic Paul Sharp/Sharppix
How do you look back on 2016?
2016 has been an excellent year for Liberty Wines. Investments made over the past few years in our people, systems and infrastructure have really started to pay off, as the growth in our sales figures shows. We have kept our focus on getting our customers the best possible wines, when and where they want them, and this has driven steady improvements across the company. There is always more we can do however, so we continue to look at ways to move the business forward.
What have been the biggest highlights?
Liberty Wines’ was rewarded for the quality of its own training in 2016
Our tastings are always a great opportunity to see our customers and to show new wines and the latest vintages. This year we have seen record attendances at our portfolio tastings in January and September, our roadshow in February and several specialist tastings throughout the year. Winning Educator of the Year at the IWC was another high point. We’ve invested significantly in our educators and the Liberty Wines Academy to give our customers and their staff practical support to help them sell wines effectively, so we are very proud that part of our business has been recognised.
And the biggest challenges?
The collapse of sterling following the EU referendum result has rocked the boat for everyone.We have worked hard with our suppliers to minimise the impact on customers but inevitably, there were some price increases. The full effect of the result on the economy is still to be felt but we weathered the global financial crisis and are in a good position to deal with whatever comes next.
What will be the key goals for first six months of 2017?
We’re expecting a squeeze on spending in 2017 as inflation, coupled with less disposable income, means households will have to be more careful with their money. We will have to be more focused than ever on doing everything we can to help our customers continue to sell premium wine.
As always, we’ll be evaluating our portfolio to make sure it continues to offer the diversity and quality our customers look for, and constantly checking our service to ensure that reliability and convenience for our customers remains paramount.
What are you doing for Christmas and New Year?
I’ll be celebrating with family and friends at home, enjoying delicious beef from Moen, London’s best butcher!
What will you be drinking?
I’m sure Charles Heidsieck will make an appearance early on and definitely Barolo with the beef.My wife’s Christmas pud cries out for Vin Santo or Tokaji, lightly chilled, and then we’ll hit the Amarone with Articulate.
Any guilty pleasures over festive period?
Catching up on a bit of sleep.
If money no option what would be your best ever Christmas?
At home with my family.
What would you be drinking and who with?
Barolo with my family.
- If you would like to share your answers to the same questions then please email Richard Siddle at richardsiddle@btopenworld.com
