Douglas, Archibald buy remaining stake in Wine Show TOPS at SPAR secured as title sponsor until 2020

Wednesday, 24 May, 2017
TOPS at Spar Wine Show
Andrew Douglas and Brett Archibald, the major stakeholders in the TOPS at SPAR Wine Show, have acquired the remaining stake in the event from partners John and Clare Woodward.

Douglas says this reaffirms the pair’s commitment to the show, and their vision to cement its position as South Africa’s leading consumer wine expo.

“South Africans have responded well to the edu-tainment concept provided by the TOPS at SPAR Wine Show; where education and information is presented in a fun and compelling way. We want to take this idea forward, and add greater value for both consumers and the participating members of the wine trade. We believe the event offers a powerful platform to help members of our industry deliver against important marketing and sales objectives, and we want to build on that,” Douglas explains.

Renowned event producer, Douglas and business partner Archibald came on board as new stakeholders to the Wine Show in 2015, bringing with them title sponsor, TOPS at SPAR. The pair have continued their relationship with TOPS at SPAR in 2017, and have secured the local liquor store brand as the show’s naming partner until 2020.

The TOPS at SPAR Wine Show has an established heritage, having started out in 2006. It has consistently grown year on year, and today is hosted in six cities across South Africa, including Johannesburg (Montecasino), Durban (Suncoast), Port Elizabeth (Boardwalk), Pretoria (Menlyn Park Shopping Centre), Nelspruit (Emnotweni) and for the first time in 2017, Cape Town (GrandWest).

“It is this exceptional heritage we want to grow, as we further promote a wine culture among South Africans, showcase what the industry has to offer, and make wine accessible and enjoyable for all South Africans,” Douglas adds.

Former partner and founder of The Wine Show, John Woodward, says he is confident that under Douglas and Archibald’s direction, the show will achieve this vision, and much more.

“It’s not without a slight tear in my eye that I now fully exit The Wine Show, but I’m immensely proud of what has been achieved since its inception 11 years ago, and I am genuinely excited to watch the show continue to grow. I remain in partnership with the show via my retail business, Frogitt & Vonkel. I wish Andrew and Brett all the best for the future,” says Woodward.

Douglas and Archibald thank John Woodward and his team for all their hard work in building South Africa’s favourite wine show, and the pair look forward to an ongoing association with Woodward in years to come.

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Andrew Douglas
Andrew Douglas

Brett Archibald
Brett Archibald

John Woodward
John Woodward

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