WineGB CEO celebrates industry’s success despite challenging times for some businesses

The comments follow the recent news that administrators have been appointed to continue operations at award-winning English winery, Ridgeview. 

Phil Harris and Neville Side of FRP Advisory were appointed as joint administrators to Ridgeview Estate Winery Limited on Monday 22nd September 2025. 

Ridgeview confirmed that the company will continue trading under administration while a sale of the business is completed to a prospective buyer. 

Phil Harris, partner at FRP Advisory, said: “Ridgeview is a highly respected name in English wine production with an excellent reputation built over many years. We’re pleased to have secured funding to continue operations and are working closely with the prospective buyer to complete the sale process. 

“Our priority is to maintain business as usual for customers, suppliers, and the wider trade while we progress the sale. The management team remains in place and committed to delivering the same high standards that Ridgeview is known for.” 

The company’s vineyard operations, production facilities, and customer service will continue without interruption during the administration period. 

Creditors with queries regarding pre-appointment debt or balances should contact the administrators at CP.Brighton@frpadvisory.com. Suppliers, contractors, and employees should continue to direct operational enquiries to Ridgeview directly through existing channels. 

‘UK success story’

Nicola Bates, CEO of WineGB, said that, despite challenges that some companies are currently facing, the English and Welsh wine is a “UK success story”.  

She added: “We remain resilient and the fastest-growing agricultural sector in the UK. The foundations for the growth of our sector are in place, and we anticipate that we will realise our potential to be a leading and premium cool-climate wine producer in the coming decades.  

“A unique advantage we have is the ability to learn from the market developments in other nations supported by our unique status as a global wine sales hub.” 

Ms Bates explained that as with any industry, the journey to maturity often results in changes in funding models leading to consolidation and changes of ownership, as some brands pass to the next generation and others respond to inbound investment.   

“We have seen this in wine regions around the world, such as Napa Valley and Oregon in the United States and Marlborough in New Zealand. 

“Our sector has already received significant backing and support. Champagne houses Pommery and Taittinger and other companies such as Henkell Freixenet, Jackson Family Wines and Symington have displayed their confidence in our sector’s future.  

“UK firms are also investing, chief among them Berry Bros & Rudd, Boutinot, Majestic, Marks and Spencer, and Waitrose. This also brings the added benefit of access to existing routes to market and distribution, both domestically and overseas,” Ms Bates continued. 

Numerous challenges

She added that change and consolidation in a growing sector such as UK wine can be difficult for all involved. “During these times it makes the work of WineGB ever more important as we support members with education, marketing and advocacy.” 

The industry expert said that the sector has faced numerous challenges in recent months, with increases in alcohol duty, employers’ National Insurance contributions and the roll out of Extended Producer Responsibility fees.  

There have also been changes to Agricultural Inheritance Relief and Business Property Relief that have affected our family-owned businesses. “This, together with a fall in consumer confidence, cuts to key government departments, and considerable job losses in the hospitality sector, is having an impact.  

“In our representations to government with our Manifesto for Growth and other engagements, we are clearly showing the funding and regulatory support necessary that will aid us during the coming years,” she concluded. 

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