The International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show (IBWSS UK 2025) convened in London this November under a renewed focus on commerce, collaboration and pragmatic sourcing — uniting bulk suppliers, private-label developers, bottlers, distributors, and hospitality buyers. The show provided a practical, business-driven platform where attendees—despite a last-minute venue relocation to Christ Church Spitalfields — met with purpose to explore bulk supply, private-label programs and long-term sourcing relationships.

Session Spotlights — What the Audience Loved

From masterclasses to expert-led tastings and forward-looking panels, several sessions stood out for their clarity, commercial relevance and strong attendee feedback:

Jo Ahearne MW is doing a Masterclass at IBWSS UK 2025

1) “The Art & Economics of Blending – Creating Wines That Sell” — led by Jo Ahearne MW. This session combined the artistry of blending with a sharp business lens, showing how blending decisions influence style, consumer appeal and margin — a must-see for trade buyers, importers, and brand managers

2) “London Wine Competition Winners Tasting” — curated by Sara Muirhead MW. By showcasing recent award-winning wines, this tasting gave buyers, sommeliers and buyers-in-waiting clarity on benchmark styles and quality standards shaping UK wine programmes.

James Cowan (Director of International Sales, Distilling Solutions at MGP), Spirits Blending Masterclass at IBWSS UK 2025

3) “Unlock the Secrets of Whiskey Blending” — conducted by James Cowan (Director of International Sales, Distilling Solutions at MGP). A technical yet highly relevant deep dive into modern whiskey blending and premiumisation strategies — particularly valued by spirits buyers, distributors and brand owners looking to create or source blended whiskies at scale. IBWSS London

4) “How Beverage Brands Can Build an AI-Powered Sales Process to Win Distribution in 2026” — by Sid Patel, CEO & Founder at Beverage Trade Network (BTN). This forward-looking session struck a nerve with brand owners and distributors, offering a blueprint on leveraging AI for outreach, prospecting and sales execution — reflecting the trade’s readiness to embrace technology-driven efficiencies.

These sessions added depth and forward-thinking strategy to what is often a straightforward sourcing exhibition, making IBWSS UK 2025 as much about learning and planning as about tasting and deals.

Why IBWSS Remains Relevant

IBWSS UK 2025 reaffirmed its position not as a glamour-driven show, but as a working platform for real business. It offered:

- A practical sourcing environment for bulk wine/spirits and private-label development.
- Educational sessions that blend craftsmanship with commercial strategy, helping buyers and brand owners make informed sourcing and brand development decisions.
- Opportunities for long-term partnerships in bottling, blending, packaging, and supply chain — rather than one-off purchases.

Industry Direction — What 2025 Show Signals

Feedback from attendees and chatter across the floor suggest a few broader trends:

- Private-label programmes — be they wines for restaurants, hotels or grocery chains — are becoming central to retailer and hospitality strategy.
- Blending (wine or spirits) and contract sourcing are viewed increasingly as tools for value, flexibility, and margin control.
- The adoption of data-driven tools and technology (e.g. AI-supported sales & distribution) is no longer optional — it’s becoming a competitive differentiator.
- Buyers care as much about commercial viability and supply-chain scalability as about flavour or terroir.

IBWSS UK is the largest trade show focused on private label and bulk in the UK.

Save the Date — IBWSS UK 2027

March 16 & 17, 2027
Royal Horticultural Halls – The Lindley Hall, 80 Vincent Square, London SW1P 2PB

If 2025 was any indicator, expect demand for exhibitor booths, visitor passes, and masterclass seats to surge — especially among brands and buyers keen on bulk supply, contract sourcing, and private-label development.

IBWSS UK 2025 was more than an expo — it was a snapshot of an industry in transition. For many attendees, the show wasn’t just about tasting or negotiating; it was about positioning for 2026 and beyond — setting supply chains, brand strategies, and sales systems ready for a changing global beverage market.

Also Read:
IBWSS UK 2027: A New Chapter for the Global Beverage Business Begins in London