Wine Drinker reports that Liberty Wines’ 2026 Independent Off-Trade Wine Report shows that UK independent wine retailers face challenging conditions, with spending down 5% between March 2024 and March 2026, although still around 20% above 2019 levels. Performance varies widely: more than 40% of retailers have grown sales, with the strongest tending to prioritise quality, distinctive ranges and attracting customers over competing with supermarkets on price. Independents have outperformed supermarkets on both volume trends and value growth, suggesting shoppers will accept higher prices when they see better quality and value.
Falling customer numbers are the main challenge, with a 9% decline over two years outweighing a 5% rise in spending per visit. The report highlights communication, tastings, events and knowledgeable staff as ways to attract customers and encourage repeat visits. Shoppers are becoming younger, while similar household incomes across different spending groups suggest scope to increase purchasing among lighter spenders. Tastes are also broadening, with strong performances from Champagne, English sparkling wine and Provence rosé, alongside growing interest in Spain, South Africa, lesser-known wine-producing countries and a wider range of grape varieties.