Berry Bros. & Rudd appoints operations director

By Jo Gilbert

Published: 07 July, 2016

Berry Bros. & Rudd has announced the appointment of an Operations, Logistics and IT Director.

Kevin Hanley joins from Direct Wines, where he has been since 2001, most recently in the role of group operations director for Laithwaite's Wine.

Chief executive Dan Jago said: "We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming Kevin on board. He will add significantly to our capability and has a great reputation for change management.

"Additionally, his commercial experience gives him a real understanding of the benefits of a joined up approach to supply and customer service.

Hanley added: "Berry Bros. & Rudd already has a world-class reputation for brilliant service, but I look forward to finding new ways to increase the company's operational efficiency and developing its performance."

Founded in 1698, Berry Bros. & Rudd is one of Britain's longest running family-owned wine and spirits merchants.

St James-based business had a shaky start to 2016, posting pre-tax losses of £11.4 million last year - more than double the company's losses of £5.7 million for 2013-14.

It is the third year in the row BB&R has posted significant negative growth. The St James-based business posted a deficit of £7.3 million in 2012-13.

Sales for the year to end March 2015 were also down 5% to £142 million.

The company attributed the losses to a major investment in new IT and e-commerce systems as well as ongoing difficulties in the Asian market.

The current range at Berry Bros. & Rudd of more than 4,000 wines is sourced from over 25 countries, from France, Italy and Spain to Brazil, Moldova and Canada.

As well as wine, spirits are also central to the business.

Alongside Speyside single malt whisky, The Glenrothes, the spirits portfolio includes the No.3 London Dry Gin, Mauritian rums Penny Blue and Pink Pigeon Rum and the unique and historic King's Ginger Liqueur.

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