Hunt is on for UK’s best new drinks business
DRINKS trade show In-Drinks is once again on the search for the UK’s best new drinks business with the kick off of its business accelerator competition, In-Drinks Catalyst.
The competition has returned for the third time and offers new drinks brands the chance to win free business advice, publicity and networking opportunities.
The initiative is inviting drinks brand – both alcoholic and non-alcoholic – the chance to help kick-start their business here in the UK with professional support.
Eligible drinks businesses must have been trading for three years or less and are encouraged to compete for the top prize of a year’s worth of business mentoring, networking opportunities and introductions within the drinks sector to fuel their growth in the sector.
A panel of expert judges will select 10 finalists across a range of drinks categories to receive free exhibition space at In-Drinks Glasgow 2025 – set to take place from Wednesday 5 March to Thursday 6 March 2025 – before two overall winners will be selected at the show following a presentation to judges at the event.
Last year’s winner in the alcohol category Lonkero has propelled its business forward, says In-Drinks, and has helped introduce the canned long gin product to locations across the UK.
Joe Harris, founder of Lonkero, said: “Being part of In-Drinks Catalyst gave us the best possible start when we launched Lonkero. Not only did we receive orders directly as a result of exhibiting, but we met buyers and connected with people at the show who have helped shape our success and who we continue to work with today.”
Entrants have until 20 January 2025 to submit a short, written entry online via the Catalyst webpage, and send a sample product for the judges to assess.
Paul Crawford, founder of Panther M*lk and chairman of In-Drinks Glasgow 2025, said: “Winning the In-Drinks Catalyst Competition for UK Start-Up Drinks Company of the Year 2023 (Alcohol) gave us industry credibility and access to expert advice, directly resulting in investment for Panther M*lk.
“It is a fantastic competition that not only provides access to drinks experts but also puts you in front of potential new customers.
“I recommend entering if you want to take your drinks business to the next level.”
