Birmingham wine merchant set to double in size

Phil Innes, the founder and owner of Loki Wine, outside the Great Western Arcade shop
Phil Innes, Loki

Birmingham wine merchant, Loki Wine is set to double the size of its city centre operation to meet demand.

The firm is set to expand into the adjoining unit in the Great Western Arcade – which was itself previously used by a drinks retailer.

The expansion will increase the firm’s ground floor area to 1,200 sq ft – double both the current square footage of the downstairs space and the store’s presence in the arcade.

Loki Wine opened in Great Western Arcade in 2012 and has enjoyed continual growth in sales year-on-year since.

Last year was the pinnacle of this progress, with a 25% increase compared with the previous year. Last year also saw Loki Wine’s events sell-out across the board.

The surge in business prompted the decision to expand and increase the capacity.

The firm will now be able to host events for up to 70 people and still have an area reserved for private tastings. Alongside the property expansion, Loki Wine’s drinks range will grow, with more spirits and beer options.

Phil Innes, the founder and owner of Loki Wine, said: “Since we opened our doors in 2012, the arcade has continued to improve and is now home to some of the best independents that the city has to offer.

“We are sure that (Great Western Arcade) will remain the primary destination for premium products in the foreseeable future, and we look forward to Loki Wine continuing to be part of this offering.”

The improvement works are already underway and are expected to take four weeks to complete.

Loki’s existing unit will remain open throughout the work.

James Roberts, manager of the Great Western Arcade, said: “We’ve seen a surge in our F&B (food & beverage) offering, which has all contributed to us looking to make GWA more of a night-time destination.

“Loki Wine has been a fundamental part of this growth and we’re delighted that it will still play a pivotal role in the arcade.”

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