Next-generation drinks agency DrinksOne is set toz.evolutionise drinks retail in the UK, with the launch of an e-commerce armaimed at both consumers and trade. Drawing on the extensive e-commerce expertise of its founders, DrinksOne is launching as a new full-solution partner for drinks brands looking to import and sell online in the UK, the world’s third-largest e-commerce market. The new platform aims to address the challenges that drinks brands, smaller ones in particular, face when entering the UK.

Traditionally, sales channels include importers, distributors, and retailers, all taking their cut of the final sale – if brands can gain listings with retailers and wholesalers in the first place. DrinksOne cuts out the middlemen, omitting import and distributor margins to offer brands substantial margin savings.

Through a dedicated e-commerce site, DrinksOne offers brands direct access to both consumers and trade, with transparent pricing set by the brands themselves, with control remaining entirely in their hands. In addition to providing this route to market and driving traffic to the site with the support of PR, DrinksOne supports brands with an in-depth data suite to help them understand their shoppers, as well as providing space for disruptor brands to advertise.

In addition, DrinksOne will feature brands at quarterly live trade tasting events, press events and bar takeovers, and can provide design services and access to sales and marketing teams.

In an official company statement the Drinks One Directors Nick Worthington, Mike Beavan, David Proctor and James Shelbourne collectively commented:

“Drinks One is looking to disrupt the drinks industry distribution status quo by modernising traditional processes, empowering everyone from producer to bartenders to consumer in the process. Our founding team was brought together by a mutual understanding that the industry needed an upgrade to meet modern demands. The four of us have over 80+ years of combined experience spanning all aspects of the drinks industry, from importation, distribution, retail, on-trade, wholesale, e-commerce, production to technical expertise. 
 
By streamlining distribution channels with efficient tech-based solutions, we essentially establish a solution where everyone wins, and we get to introduce some of most exciting and innovative new brands to the world.” 

DrinksOne’s inaugural showcase event took place in London during this year’s London Cocktail Week, on 19 October 2023 at Hart Shoreditch. Buyers, bartenders, media professionals and other influential trade guests were introduced to this new, unique model, as well as an extensive portfolio of brands. Future London events are already planned for April and October 2024, with a Manchester showcase scheduled for June 2024.

The founding team behind DrinksOne consists of four industry veterans, each bringing extensive experience in e-commerce, brand building and more.

• Global drinks expert Nick Worthington brings over 20 years of expertise in the industry, having worked globally across beer, wine, spirits and non-alcoholic sectors.

• Master brands creator James Shelbourne brings 25 years of brand-building experience, most recently as co-founder of Silent Pool Gin.

• Distribution expert Mike Beavan’s extensive career has included roles as CEO of the e-commerce platform 31Dover, as well as senior roles within the wholesale sector, including sales and marketing director at Coe Vintners.

• With over a decade of experience in building global e-commerce businesses across multiple industries, David Proctor is also the founder of a global e- commerce agency and brings digital expertise to the founders group.