Conviviality drinks to outstanding half year as revenue hits £783m

CREWE-based Conviviality, owner of Bargain Booze and Wine Rack, is toasting spectacular half-year results which have put revenue 211% ahead of last year, at £783m.

The AIM-listed company, based near Chester, has had its coffers boosted by the acquisitions of Matthew Clark in late 2015, Perpermint, just after Christmas, and Bibendum PLB Group in May, in the 26 weeks to October 30.

Following the acquisitions, the company has been divided into three business units.

These are Conviviality Direct, the UK’s largest independent wholesaler to the on-trade serving 23,000 outlets from national prestige hotel chains to independent food-led pubs and restaurants; Conviviality Retail, franchised off licence and convenience chain with 358 Franchisees and more than 700 retail stores trading primarily under the Bargain Booze, Bargain Booze Select Convenience and Wine Rack fascia; Conviviality Trading, a full service brand and wine agency with activation capability including festivals and events.

Chief executive Diana Hunter said: “I am pleased that the group has delivered this strong performance across all divisions during such a transformational period.

“This further demonstrates the teamwork and dedication of all of our people in maintaining excellent levels of service to their customers.

“The organic growth in each business unit demonstrates that existing and new customers are increasingly recognising Conviviality as the leading solution provider and distributor to the UK drinks market.”