The Drinks Business
12 February 2021 By Patrick Schmitt
Figures released yesterday show a surge in Port sales in the UK, particularly in the run up to Christmas, despite the coronavirus restrictions.
On fire: Port sales surged in the UK during 2020
According to the Port and Douro Wines Institute (IVDP), Port sales to the UK increased by 11.4% in volume and 2.8% in value in 2020, taking final shipments close to 1 million nine-litre cases.
As a result, the UK became the fourth largest port market in the world by volume, and the second largest by value – and maintained its position as the largest premium port market by volume (see figures at the bottom of this article).
Port sales soar as drinkers fortify themselves in lockdown
Symington Family Estates sold more than 11 bottles of Cockburn’s every minute during the final three months of 2020
11 February 2021 • 12:31pm
One of the world’s biggest producers of port has notched up soaring sales as British drinkers stock their drinks cabinets with fortified wine during the pandemic.
Symington Family Estates, which owns brands including Cockburn’s and Graham’s, said demand for its ranges were fuelled by sales at supermarkets and other shops while pubs and restaurants were closed for much of the year.
Retail sales of Cockburn’s shot up by just over a fifth, Symington said, with 11.6 bottles sold every minute during the Christmas quarter year as households stocked up for the festive season.