Uk Overtakes France In Wine Spending

For the first time in history, the French consumer has been overthrown in wine consumption and spending. The latest figures show England edging out France as the world leader in spending on this popular beverage. With consumption expected to keep climbing well into the future, most experts agree that the UK is in no danger of being overthrown by the former leader. While this trend might be unexpected by some, most could see it coming. As the UK has grown in terms of imports, its consumption has followed. The logical path of easier access leading to more spending seems to be the culprit behind this turn of events.

In 2010, wine consumption in the UK rose 1.1% when compared to 2009. Experts predict that from 2010 to 2014, that rate will be 2.9%, giving the UK solid ground on which to stand when it comes to their current status. Another contributing factor to this jump in consumer spending is the availability of higher priced choices. More expensive bottles are still more popular in France, making it clear that the UK connoisseur is a more budget-conscious consumer. Spending less on each bottle allows the consumer to buy more bottles, inching up total spending.

One of the leading factors in their rise to the top is the UK's status as the largest wine importer in the world. In terms of volume and value, they are at the front of the pack. France and Germany still outshine them in worldwide sales of light varieties. When it comes to assortment, 45% of UK consumers prefer white. With ros‚ quickly rising at a rate of 93%, it still only accounts for a small percentage of total consumption in the country. Variety doesn't seem to be what the UK consumer is necessarily after.

Sparkling wine is another growing trend in the UK, with consumption increasing 16.1% from 2005 to 2009. With total sales topping out at over 8 billion Euros, the UK is expected to stay on top of the world when it comes to spending. Spirits on the whole are becoming more widely consumed throughout the country, giving the rest of the world competition in many areas. Vodka, bourbon, and tequila consumption in particular have risen dramatically. As the world starts to appreciate the finer things in life, the UK might find competition in unexpected places in the future. For now, they stand strong at the top of connoisseurs around the world.

By: James N. Nicholson

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