Bargain Booze owner Conviviality triples revenues with acquisition hat-trick

Alcohol wholesaler and distributor Conviviality Plc has seen its revenues more than triple following a string of acquisitions.

The Crewe-based firm, which also operates on the retail front through its Bargain Booze chain of outlets, saw its group turnover leap by 211% to £783m during the six months to October 30.

The figure includes the revenues from Matthew Clark, Peppermint and Bibendum PLB Group, each of which was acquired by Conviviality during the last 12 months.

Now, Conviviality’s bosses have split the business into three units – Conviviality Direct, its wholesale business supplying 23k outlets from hotel chains to restaurants and food-led pubs; Conviviality Retail, its franchised off licence and convenience chain trading under the Bargain Booze, Bargain Booze Select Convenience and Wine Rack brands; and Conviviality Trading, its full-service brand and wine agency with activation capability such as festivals and events.

Conviviality Direct generated sales of £515m in the six months to 30 October, while Conviviality Retail achieved £189m during the period and Conviviality Trading £79m.

The firm’s CEO, 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.”

She continued: “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.”