Independents are positive despite a year of turmoil

Survey shows pessimism at a new high, yet the majority of merchants believe they can ride out the current storm

Independents remain upbeat about their prospects in the coming year, despite confidence – and, in many cases, sales – taking a knock.

This year’s Wine Merchant survey involved more than 200 businesses who shared information about their performances in 2022 and hopes for 2023.

The proportion of indies feeling gloomy about the year ahead has hit a new high, with 13% saying they are fairly pessimistic and 2% saying they are very pessimistic. But 12% remain very optimistic and 39% are fairly optimistic, the survey found.

Almost four in 10 indies report a decline in sales over the past year – about the same proportion as those who saw an increase.

Average turnover per business now stands at £863,413, according to the survey, though this figure is perhaps higher than the true average as it includes some responses from larger independents with big wholesaling operations. The median average figure, of £550,000, is probably more representative.

Wine in all its forms contributes about three-quarters of indie turnover. Just over half of revenue is generated by walk-in trade, with wholesaling, online sales and drinking-in contributing most of the remainder.

The average price of a bottle of still wine in the independent trade has risen 60p, to £15.70, compared to a market average of £6.35. But basket spend is down by 41p and now stands at £52.20.

Almost half of all indies are now hybrid shops and bars, restoring a trend that had

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