Wine and lager sales up

THE total UK wine market is now worth £41,440m, according to a report just published by Headland Research. The report shows a growth of 41% over the five-year period, 1988-1992. It reflects a rapid recovery from the recession of 1991.

France remains the largest source of imports with more than 52% of the market by value and 37.5% by volume. Wine from the New World is increasingly important, especially from Australia and California. Imports from Eastern Europe, led by Bulgaria, are also growing.

A further report from Headland confirmed that so-called premium lager is growing much faster than the beer market as whole. Nearly 300 brands are now available in the UK. The market is now worth £2.5b a year and, says the report, no "progressive or brewer or caterer can ignore it".

The reports are available from Headland Press (0429 231902) at £195 each.