DrinkWell alcohol range

Source: DrinkWell

DrinkWell plans to add new features to its retail business and expand into Europe

Low-calorie alcohol retailer DrinkWell has secured a £1m investment to fund its expansion.

The funding – which came from a private investor – will allow the Manchester-based e-commerce retailer to scale and grow its team, while investing in NPD.

It currently has two new, own-label low-calorie alcohol brands in the pipeline: Lean Brew IPA and Traces Wine.

DrinkWell also plans to add new features to its retail business, expand into Europe and invest in marketing to further build its brand and drive recruitment.

The retailer last summer ventured into the on-trade, launching its own wholesale business.

DrinkWell founder Tom Bell said there was “phenomenal demand for cleaner, lighter, and healthier alternatives that don’t compromise on ABV”.

“We are seeing so much growth in this space and thankfully we have solidified our position as the retailer and now wholesaler of choice for those brands.”

Thanks to the investment, DrinkWell was progressing its wholesale proposition “offering a one-stop shop to offer a better-for-you drinks category”, Bell added.

It comes after the booze retailer made a surprise move into bottled water in January, with what it has claimed is the UK’s first fully biodegradable on-the-go water bottle.