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Looking ahead: Troy Christensen, CEO, Enotria and Coe

Published:  18 December, 2017

With the all-important Christmas trading period underway - and hopefully turning passion into profit for the UK’s wine and spirits operators - we at Harpers are looking ahead past New Year to see what’s in store for the trade in 2018.

We kick off our series with some pithy insights from Troy Christensen, CEO, Enotria and Co.



1. What were the highs and lows for you and your business in 2017?

Lows: Continued Brexit uncertainty impacting economy, Sterling strength and consumer confidence.

Highs: Restructured finances to enable growth despite the challenging circumstances.



2. What were the most significant things that happened or issues and trends that occurred in 2017?

Drinking less, but better is an obvious trend and will continue.



3. What trends do you predict for 2018?

People will go out less, but spend more for the right experience - that insta-gramable event.



4. What are likely to be the biggest opportunities for the trade in 2018?

Taking advantage of the premium opportunities including continued growth of craft spirits.



5. What are the biggest challenges facing the trade in 2018?

The impact of a poor vintage on costs burdening an on-trade battered by minimum wage, increased rates, food inflation and duty.



6. Who are the people, companies or retailers to watch in 2018?

Pressure is on large retail. It will be interesting to see how they respond to the internet and discounters. I would forecast one of the big retailers to take a bold and innovative step in 2018.



7. What, for you, would make for a perfect Christmas?

A great Christmas movie combined with a Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon!



8. New Year's resolution?

Help Italy find it’s new ‘Pinot Grigio’.




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