The United Kingdom becomes a new strategic platform for the international growth of Italian wine. Compagnia del Gusto Holding, an investment company promoted by the Cosulich family, has announced the acquisition of Jascots Wine Merchants, one of the leading independent operators in the British On-Trade channel. The transaction, supported by a partnership with Freixenet Copestick, aims to strengthen the presence of high‑end Italian wines in one of the most relevant markets for the international food & beverage industry. The agreement marks a significant step in the group’s expansion strategy, granting direct access to a consolidated commercial network and a clientele composed of high‑profile restaurants, hotels, and wine bars.
Compagnia del Gusto Holding: a strategic acquisition for the UK On‑Trade
The transaction will be carried out through the British subsidiary CDGH UK, which will acquire all commercial assets of Jascots Wine Merchants, along with the company’s administrative team and sales force.
Founded in 1986, Jascots Wine Merchants is considered one of the most authoritative independent players in wine distribution within the UK On‑Trade channel. In 2025, the company recorded a turnover of £10 million, consolidating a highly qualified presence in the British horeca segment.
Thanks to this acquisition, Compagnia del Gusto Holding will rely on an already established distribution structure in the market, using it as a platform to further expand the presence of Italian wines and food products.
A direct bridge to one of the world’s most important markets
The United Kingdom continues to be one of the main reference markets for international agri‑food and wine exports.
Direct entry into the British distribution system will allow the Italian group not only to maintain and develop the international portfolio already managed by Jascots, but also to strengthen the positioning of Italian labels within a consolidated commercial network.
The strategy aims to enhance Italy’s production heritage in a highly competitive environment that is increasingly attentive to premium wines and high‑value products.
Ettore Nicoletto, CEO of Compagnia del Gusto Holding: “A key milestone in our strategy”
The significance of the transaction is underscored by Ettore Nicoletto, CEO of Compagnia del Gusto Holding.
“The acquisition of Jascots represents a key milestone in our international growth strategy. The United Kingdom is a strategic market for high‑end Italian wines and, thanks to Jascots, we gain a solid distribution platform, a highly experienced team, and deep knowledge of the On‑Trade channel. We are excited to bring the best of our Italian portfolio to such a prestigious clientele.”
Nicoletto’s words highlight the group’s intention to build a direct and structured presence in key international markets, leveraging the quality of Italian production and the expertise of local operators.
The partnership with Freixenet Copestick
Alongside the acquisition, Compagnia del Gusto Holding and Freixenet Copestick have established a partnership designed to ensure continuity and development for Jascots’ activities.
The agreement represents a collaboration between two companies that share the goal of strengthening wine distribution in the British market, creating new opportunities for clients, producers, and industry professionals.
Freixenet Copestick also welcomes the new phase ahead for Jascots Wine Merchants, explains Damian Clarke, Managing Director of Freixenet Copestick and Chief Sales Officer of Henkell Freixenet:
“We are proud of the results achieved by Jascots Wine Merchants since we acquired it in 2020. This partnership with Compagnia del Gusto Holding will ensure business continuity and offer new development opportunities for the team and our customers. We are confident that Compagnia del Gusto’s vision and expertise will further strengthen Jascots’ position in the UK On‑Trade market.”
Compagnia del Gusto Holding accelerates its international expansion
The acquisition is part of the development path of Compagnia del Gusto Holding, a company active in investments and in the enhancement of high‑potential brands in the food & beverage sector.
The group operates with a medium‑to‑long‑term strategy focused on managerial growth, industrial integration, and international development, with particular attention to premium segments and brands with strong identity.
Entering the British market through an already established company like Jascots is fully aligned with this vision.
With this acquisition, Compagnia del Gusto Holding not only expands its international presence but also strengthens the ability of Italian wine to reach one of the world’s most influential markets.
Direct access to the British On‑Trade channel, the preservation of commercial relationships built by Jascots, and the partnership with Freixenet Copestick create the conditions for significant growth of Italian presence in the sector.
The financial closing of the transaction is expected by October 2026 and will mark the beginning of a new strategic phase aimed at further strengthening the dialogue between Italian wine excellence and the British market.
