WineGB appoints chair to support the sector’s ‘continued expansion’

The national body for the English and Welsh wine industry WineGB has appointed Charlie Holland to be its new chair. The move coincides with English and Welsh wine enjoying a period of sustained expansion and rising consumer demand.

Holland, who takes on the role following the completion of Nick Wenmn’s interim term, will be focused on driving transformational change, strengthening the resilience of the sector, and ensuring WineGB’s work is firmly aligned with what matters most to its members.

‘A significant step’

The hire, which has been described by the organisation as “a significant step” is set to support “the continued expansion of one of the UK’s fastest‑growing agricultural sectors”.

English wine has shown great resilience of late, with sales continuing to climb and still wine ticking up by 10%, and sparkling wine maintaining volumes.

During Holland’s career he has held a number of overseas winemaking positions from Napa Valley and Southern France to Germany and New Zealand. Holland has also held the dual role of CEO and head winemaker at Gusbourne, before joining Jackson Family Wines in 2023 to set up and develop its new English wine business.

Speaking about his role, Holland said: “Having worked across the wine, agriculture and drink sectors for many years, I’ve seen first‑hand the pressures and opportunities that shape our industry. From climate variability to rising production costs and the demands of a rapidly expanding market, these challenges are real, but they are also navigable with the right leadership and collaboration.”

Holland assured that he is “committed to helping WineGB and its members weather these pressures, strengthen resilience, and ensure our industry continues to thrive long into the future”.

‘A world-class wine-producing region’

The appointment coincides with the English and Welsh wine industry enjoying a period of sustained expansion, with vineyard plantings, production volumes, and consumer demand all continuing to rise.

WineGB has said that its strategic focus for the coming year includes: “Enhancing member services, supporting export development, and reinforcing the UK’s position as a world‑class wine‑producing region”.

Wenman added: “Serving as interim chair has been a great privilege. Our members, our wines, and our momentum have never been stronger, and I’m thrilled to pass the baton to Charlie, our new chair, and watch this remarkable community continue to thrive.”

Running from 20–28 June, English Wine Week is WineGB’s national celebration of homegrown wine, designed to showcase the quality, diversity and innovation of producers across the country. The trade body has identified that growing consumer demand for local, sustainable and premium products presents a strong opportunity for retailers to differentiate their ranges while increasing store traffic and is offering participants campaign assets, point-of-sale materials and promotional support to help raise visibility during the week.

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