London Sales

• In London sales (mainly on-trade) during 2024 there was significant demand from companies keen to hire yet this this area is still under-resourced, although the staffing level has increased since 2023. The junior entrant level into these roles has changed: in wine despite significant enthusiasm from sommeliers this established route into trade roles is no longer popular with employers.  In spirits candidates with bar/hospitality experience have more success moving into trade roles although increasingly spirits hiring managers are asking for candidates with trade sales experience.
• In 2024 there was a lot of people movement in the London on-trade and some companies paid a premium for these new employees.  This year (2025) there is still demand but it is muted from last year and large salary increases are under pressure.
• “Plug and play” candidates who can bring a contact book, business development and account management skills (minimum 5 years’ experience) are still in a good position if looking for a new role.
• Another development since 2024 has been that a lot of companies were looking to add to their London teams and were unable to hire due to the competition and salary levels.  Candidates who had moved out of London sales (even up to 5 years out of the sector) were enticed back into these roles.
• Off-trade London sales roles are less commonly found.  In the spirits market these are salespeople can normally cover wholesale, on- and off-trade (indies and perhaps luxury retail) however in the wine sector there are a few specific off-trade London positions.