Henkell & Co Group takes a 60% stake in Copestick Murray

By Richard Siddle

Published: 30 August, 2013

Sparkling wine giant, Henkell & Co Group, has acquired a 60% stake in UK wine impoorter and distributor Copestick Murray which will help take the company to the next stage of its growth and dramatically strengthen its postion in international markets.

It also marks Henkell & Co Group's commitment to the UK market after setting up its own distribution company in the country in 2011. Copestick Murray, which was founded in 2005 by Robin Copestick and Paul Murray has developed its own business from an initial broker's model to build up its own distribution and wine branded business, spearheaded by the 'I heart' wine brand which it launched in 2010.

Robin Copestick told harpers.co.uk:"The partnership with the Henkell & Co Group not only secures Copestick Murray financially but also gives us the opportunity to continue to grow, not only in the UK, but also internationally. We have great plans for I heart all over the world and the Henkell & Co Group is very excited by this brand."

He added: "In the meantime the Copestick Murray management remains the same and our entrepreneurial spirit will not be dampened in any way. this is a great deal for all parties."

Dr Andreas Brokemper, chief executive of Henkell & Co. Group, said of the deal: "The UK is the largest market for Prosecco Spumante (DOC) outside of Italy and one of the fastest growing markets for Prosecco overall. The Mionetto brand gives us a leading Italian Prosecco brand with a long history and superlative quality. In the US we have played an important role in shaping and creating the Prosecco trend and we are now the market leader. We are fully confident that the Copestick Murray team, together with our own sales organisation, will establish the Mionetto brand in the UK as well."

Copestick added: "The partnership with Henkell is a perfect fit for our company. Their speciality in making sparkling wines all over Europe is very exciting for us. Sparkling wine is a growth category in the UK and up until now we were under represented in this area."

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