Q1 2025 – Hiring trends, UK drinks sector

March 24, 2025

Q1 2025 – Hiring trends, UK drinks sector

The number of candidates in a process has increased apart from at one level: second job – at this level there are less candidates. It is more difficult to get a job in the UK due to visa restrictions; a student visa often valid for 2 years after study ends and then for the second job candidates need sponsorship. Additionally at the second job level hiring managers typically expect a demonstrable amount of product knowledge and trade experience the candidates can describe – event organizing, sales or business development, or working on marketing campaigns and the corresponding results. Also hiring at this level still relies heavily on demonstrating a great attitude & plenty of enthusiasm. This level of hiring can be quite difficult to get right.
There is still high interest from candidates outside the UK however UK work visa availability is a barrier as many companies do not want to provide sponsorship. There is a continued increase in supply of candidates from Australia & New Zealand who tend to have favorable visa situations.
Personality/aptitude testing is becoming standard in searches at mid-to senior levels. In our experience this adds significant value to the recruiting process and comfort to the hiring manager. Here at Vinokelly we include this as a standard service for no extra fee for any client.
Some current hiring trends: salespeople with UK multiple retailer buyer relationships; brand marketers; digital marketers specifically in No & low and spirits but less so in wine (TikTok experience for no alcohol); experienced London on-trade sales and proven mid to senior level regional sales.
Currently difficult area to hire: fine wine (& whisky) private client account managers. Hiring managers in this market ideally want candidates who can bring a (several years) established book of minimum revenue £1m.

Transferable Skills? Or: Why am I finding it hard to break into the UK drinks sector?

At Vinokelly we get a regular flow of potential candidates who are keen to move into the wonderful world of drinks (alcohol) in the UK.

Why did we start a Drinks Recruitment business?

Vinokelly was started in 2016 by wine industry sales and buying professional Gareth, and his wife Elizabeth, a highly experienced city focussed head-hunter. We did

Q1 2025 – Hiring trends, UK drinks sector

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Transferable Skills? Or: Why am I finding it hard to break into the UK drinks sector?

Why did we start a Drinks Recruitment business?

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