Amber Beverage Group UK, a major alcohol wholesaler supplying Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's, Waitrose and Co-op, has ceased trading and entered administration after nearly 27 years in business. The London-based company, a UK subsidiary of a Luxembourg-based firm, reported losses of more than £21.1 million.
Company History and Operations
Established in 1999, ABG UK, previously known as Cellar Trends, was acquired by the Luxembourg company Amber Beverage Group in 2018. The company supplied all sectors of the UK drinks industry, bringing 60 international brands to UK shelves.
Its brand portfolio included Moskovskaya Vodka, Rooster Rojo Tequila, KAH Tequila, The Irishman Whiskey, Writers' Tears Whiskey, Riga Black Balsam, Cross Keys Gin, and Cosmopolitan Diva.
Administration and Financial Losses
The company ceased trading and filed a notice with the High Court, with administrators from the accounting firm BDO LLP appointed on October 19. The decision followed unsuccessful attempts to sell the business.
According to the Spirits Business, ABG UK last filed accounts with Companies House in January 2026, showing losses exceeding £21.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Impact on Staff
According to The Herald, Scotland, the majority of the company's 27 employees have been made redundant with immediate effect, while a small number have been kept on a temporary basis to assist with the administration process.
A spokesperson for BDO told The Herald: "Prior to the appointment of administrators, efforts were made to sell the business as a going concern, but this proved not to be possible." BDO LLP has been contacted for comment.
