Member Article

Irlam MD named one of UK’s Top 100 people in wine

Ed Baker, MD at Kingsland Drinks in Irlam, has been listed as one of the Top 100 most influential people in wine in top drinks industry magazine, Drinks Retailing News.

The annual list features key figures shaping UK wine industry, with Ed taking 24th position. He took over the role of managing director in 2019 following Andy Sagar’s move to executive chairman in 2019.

He has already made his mark in the business and expanded the world-class operation to enhance production and product development capabilities. In his short time at the helm, Ed led the investment of £1.2 million in a new canning line at the Irlam site, imported and launched the first Indian wine to UK shores with Soul Tree, and brought to market a new range of canned alcoholic drinks, Vin Crowd.

Ed says: “It’s an honour to be featured on the Top 100 list alongside so many individuals I respect and admire for their knowledge and hard work in the wine industry. It’s certainly a boost for our whole team and I thank each and every employee for their incredible dedication and commitment, as well as our customers, suppliers and partners, as they all contribute the success of the business.

“We’re doing everything we can to support all areas of the wine industry, in the UK and globally, at this challenging time.

“We entered 2020 full of optimism and excitement for the year ahead and we have certainly had some challenges to contend with, but with our strong and experienced team, we’re hopeful for a successful second half.

“This accolade consolidates our position in the dynamic wine industry and further reinforces Manchester’s place on the wine map.”

Kingsland Drinks is a leading independent supplier to the UK drinks sector.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Francesca Gaffey .