Manchester wine merchants crowned ‘Independent Retailer of the Year’

IWSC news

Tue 22 Nov 2011

hangingditch, an independent wine specialist in Manchester, has scooped the prestigious title of ‘Independent Retailer of the Year’ from the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC).
 
The eclectic store which, in the three years since it opened has already notched up a string of awards, beat off competition from around the country to win the hotly-contested title.
 
Judges were impressed by hangingditch’s range of wine as well as its ability to take the ‘fear factor’ out of buying wine. Rather than being displayed by country, wine is labelled ‘light and juicy reds’ or ‘dry and crisp whites’.
 
The IWSC’s marketing manager, David Kelly, said: “hangingditch offers wines by the glass from a rotating selection in their coffee bar and communicate enthusiastically with their customers when running both corporate and on-site tastings. With 30 year’s experience between them Ben Stephenson and Mark Dent provide carefully chosen dependable wines and professional advice taking the ‘fear factor’ out of choosing wine.”
 
The award, in its third year, recognises the importance of independent wine merchants and the additional services and expertise they provide to UK wine buyers.
 
hangingditch’s co founder, Ben Stephenson, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be awarded the IWSC Independent Retailer of the Year 2011. Our business is a modern take on the European enoteca concept and thrives on diversity. Our small team continues to deliver quality and innovation. Creative thinking is actively encouraged and customer service is paramount. We are proud to have achieved so much in such a short space of time. It’s great that a small independent from Manchester is standing on the podium alongside long established industry players.”
 
The 2011 shortlist included Joseph Barnes Wines in Essex, The Haslemere Cellar in Surrey and Highbury Vintners in London.
 
hangingditch is the creation of Ben Stephenson and Mark Dent who collectively have 30 year’s experience in the wine industry.
 
The awards were announced at the IWSC’s annual banquet at London’s Guildhall on Wednesday 16 November. To see the photo gallery from this event please click here
 
For further information, please contact:
David Kelly, Marketing Manager
Tel: +44 (0) 1483 542 707
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