February 18, 2025 – Despite facing one of the most challenging trading environments in decades, the London Wine Fair organisers are optimistic about the event’s future, with 87% of exhibit space already confirmed or reserved for the 2025 show, marking a 9% increase compared to the previous year. This growth, which factors in a reduction in aisle width to allow for more exhibitors, reflects a robust outlook for the UK market. The exhibitor lineup includes a mix of generics, agents, importers, and brands, many of which are returning after a break or debuting at the show.
Growth Areas: Portugal and Asia: The 2025 London Wine Fair will showcase notable growth in two key regions: Portugal and Asia. Portugal, in particular, will have its largest presence in recent years, with 44 wineries, represented by ViniPortugal, committed to exhibiting in the Wines Unearthed section. This marks a significant increase from 2023, when only half as many wineries participated. Additionally, Oakley Wine Agencies, a Portuguese and Spanish specialist importer, will also be attending for the first time.
Asia will also have a larger presence, particularly China, where stand space will nearly double. Vinum Eurus, a Chinese wine specialist importer, is expanding its footprint by over 300% to reflect its growing focus on the UK market. The company currently represents 10 wineries from China. For the first time, Chinese estates Fei Tswei Wine, from the Ningxia Helan Mountain appellation, and Célèbre from Yunnan’s high-altitude vineyards will have their own stands. The Japan Pavilion, which made its debut in 2024, will return with a 50% larger stand, now over 150sqm, to present a diverse range of sake, shochu, and wine.
Strong French Presence and Other Expansions: France is also investing heavily in the 2025 fair, with 26 independent producers exhibiting, a notable increase from the previous year. The Vin IGP Méditerranée region is boosting its presence by 50%, driven by the rising popularity of rosé wines. Meanwhile, CIVP – Vins De Provence will host a masterclass on the opening day.
In addition to these international showcases, several established players are expanding their presence. Mentzendorff, returning after a 12-year absence in 2024, has increased its stand size by 10 square meters to display a larger selection of its premium wines. Hatch Mansfield, one of the event’s largest exhibitors, will maintain its 130sqm stand, having found all additional space fully utilized throughout the event last year. Logistics provider Hillebrand Gori is increasing its stand by a third, while Wines of Serbia and GM Drinks will both have significantly larger stands, with GM Drinks more than doubling its space.
New Partnership with Canned Wine Group: In a fresh development, the Canned Wine Group has entered into a three-year partnership with London Wine Fair. The partnership will see the Group exhibit its flagship brand, Canned Wine Co., alongside The Copper Crew’s organic wines, expanding its stand for 2025. Ben Franks, co-founder and CCO of Canned Wine Group, emphasized the fair’s importance, stating, “London Wine Fair is the UK’s leading trade show for wine. It has provided a brilliant opportunity to continue the conversation about drinking less but better wines with our premium range of varietal, vintage wines in can.”
Positive Outlook for the UK Market: Hannah Tovey, Head of the London Wine Fair, highlighted the optimism in the UK market, which is reflected in the high level of exhibitor engagement. “Our growth is largely coming from emerging territories such as China, Japan, Romania, and Serbia, as well as countries seeing a resurgence, such as Portugal,” she remarked. The event will also feature leading UK agents like Awin Barratt Siegel, Buckingham Schenk, EWGA, Hatch Mansfield, Felix Solis, Lanchester Wines, Liquid Diamond Wines, Marcato Direct, Mentzendorff, Richmond Wine Agencies, and WX Brands.
The 2025 London Wine Fair promises to be a dynamic and diverse event, with significant international participation and a strong indication of continued growth in the UK wine market.
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