Canned Wine Group names Ben Franks as CEO

Canned Wine Group has appointed co-founder Ben Franks as CEO in a move that sees the business take a new strategic direction with a broadening portfolio and a focus on UK growth.

The business, which was founded in 2019 by Franks and Simon Rollings, was established to challenge traditional wine formats and bring premium, interesting wines to market in more alternative formats.

Strong traction

According to the company, it has already secured national distribution, including a preferred supplier agreement with the drinks wholesaler C&C Group – and has developed strong traction across multiple channels including entertainment and wider hospitality markets.

Back in 2023, Canned Wine Group acquired competitor The Copper Crew, consolidating its position in the growing canned wine category. Last year the group expanded further with the launch of its kegged wine portfolio in a move that positioned it at the forefront of wine on tap within the UK market.

Scaling distribution

The new leadership structure sees Franks step into the CEO role effective from 1 March 2026, taking over responsibility from Rollings. The switch-around has taken place to support plans to scale distribution, broadening the business’s premium single-serve canned wine range and to introduce a tiered proposition within its keg portfolio to capture a wider share of the on-trade wine market.

Alongside portfolio expansion, the business also will be investing in strengthening its UK sales infrastructure, to continue category growth and increase market share across the trade.

Speaking about his new role, Franks said: “I’m determined for Canned Wine Group to deliver the most trusted wine-by-the-glass experience. This year, we are excited to innovate with future formats that rapidly expand our availability, and reduce liquid waste from venues up and down the country. Simon and the team have laid strong foundations for us to lead the market and I’m looking forward to building on them in our next phase of growth.”

Long-term strategy

Rollings now transitions to executive chair, where he will focus on long-term market strategy, governance, funding and building a “world class” board.

Rollins explained: “I am very pleased that Ben will take my place as CEO. As co-founder at Canned Wine Group, Ben is uniquely well placed to lead the business through its next stage of growth. He brings a wealth of contacts from his time as CEO of Novel Wines and MD of Ben Franks Wine. I’m also excited to take on the executive chair role that will shape the long term direction of our group and ensure we remain leaders in this growing market.”

Responsible growth

Under Rollins leadership, Canned Wine Group achieved the second highest score globally through Positive Luxury’s ESG+ Butterfly Mark certification in 2024, reinforcing the company’s commitment to transparency, accountability and responsible growth.

As the UK wine market continues to evolve, Canned Wine Group has stated how its alternative wine format strategy positions it as a leading figure in changing consumer behaviours and increasing demand for operational efficiency within the trade.

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