Coterie announces landmark Berry Bros. & Rudd Japan deal

By James Lawrence

Published: 14 October, 2026

Coterie Holdings has unveiled plans to acquire Berry Bros. & Rudd’s (BBR) Japanese wholesale business, strengthening the company’s distribution footprint in Asia.

According to Coterie: “Under the agreement, Berry Bros. & Rudd’s wholesale activities in Japan will transfer to The Wine Experience, a specialist fine wine importer owned by Coterie Holdings, along with the majority of the producers currently represented by BBR Japan.”

However, the deal will not impact BBR's private client business in Japan, which will remain with the merchant and continue operating as it has since 2008.

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“Japan remains an important market for Berry Bros. & Rudd, and we are committed to building on our longstanding presence there. This planned sale will allow us to focus more closely on our private client service in Japan and across Asia, including Hong Kong, Singapore and Taiwan. We are working closely with Coterie Holdings to ensure a smooth transition," said BBR chair Lizzy Rudd.

For Coterie, the acquisition is a golden opportunity to build a stronger presence across Asian fine wine markets by using consolidation to reach new customers in the region.

“We are delighted to welcome BBR Wholesale Japan customers to the Coterie Holdings Group. Our immediate priority is to ensure a seamless transition for all customers from BBR Wholesale Japan. We look forward to serving and working with our new customers in the future," added CEO Michael Saunders.

Saunders has previously outlined his desire to develop a multi-market business spanning distribution, merchanting and support services, with the latest move providing a stronger foothold in one of Asia's key economies.

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