Tight budget? Here’s what bottles should make the booze shelf

Nick Gillett is co-founder and managing director of successful spirits distributor Mangrove Global, as well as an industry expert and commentator. In his column for the 12th July issue of Asian Trader, Nick gives advice on how to curate your liquor shelves if you are pressed for space, or your customers for cash

Not every retailer has space for a huge range of bottles on their booze shelf – and let’s face it, right now we have a tricky economy, increasing cost of living, and both the on and off trade are adjusting their offer accordingly. So, if you’re keeping an eye on the bottom line, how do you choose the right bottles for your shelf? 

I’ll start off by saying the ideal range of spirits varies wildly from store to store. You should know your local customer base and what they want; know what bottles always sell, and if those sales are seasonal in any way; and you should be ahead of trends and understand what people are drinking in bars, or what’s having a bit of a ‘hot moment’. 

If you’re asking me what a small but perfectly formed range looks like, I’d say a couple of brands in the larger categories like whisky, gin, and vodka. I’d stock an agave or two (because it’s popular right now) and a few trending liqueur options (this summer, limoncello would be an excellent choice) as well as some Ready to Drink options in the form of pre-batched cocktails. And don’t shy away from more premium bottles – we know that in spite of tightening purse strings, people are drinking less but better these days. 

And if, after considering all of the above, you’re still unsure – speak to your wholesaler and share whatever wisdom they impart with your staff. That knowledge might just sell an extra bottle or five!