Sandeman wants more exposure for indies

Lea & Sandeman is determined to improve customer recognition of high class independent merchants in the UK.

The declaration was made during the merchant’s first press tasting as the newest member of The Bunch, a group of six quality UK independent wine merchants.

In order to “promote the benefits of buying from independents as opposed to the chains and supermarkets,” Patrick Sandeman of Lea & Sandeman told the drinks business that he looks forward to greater promotion of The Bunch’s existence, highlighting that more can be done to promote the group’s wines in the on-trade as well as among private customers.

“I would like to see more joint tastings and a little less ‘protectionism’ by the individual members,” he added.

Sandeman, who expressed his delighted at being part of The Bunch, also outlined the benefits of being a Bunch member, saying: “It provides greater assurance to our customers, especially when it comes to such sensitive issues as the fulfilment of en primeur orders.”

As well as providing extra confidence for customers, Sandeman also explained how its new membership was also beneficial for staff morale. “I think that all of our staff are fully committed to L&S and that such recognition [being in The Bunch] gives them greater confidence and pride in the company for which they work.”

Lea & Sandeman, which made a good impression at its first Bunch tasting with a stellar line-up of wines, is “the new blood that The Bunch needed,” according to former chairman of the group, Jason Yapp of Yapp Bros.

With four independent stores in London, Lea & Sandeman stepped into Lay & Wheeler’s shoes at the end of last year following the latter independent merchant’s acquisition by Majestic Wine.

Jane Parkinson, 13.09.2010