LINDEMANS UP 17.2% IN THE U.S.

In last Friday’s issue of WSD (Aug. 11), I reported that Lindemans of Foster’s Group has suffered a 20% slip in the year to May 2006, but forgot to include I was referring to the U.K. market. The U.S. division of Foster’s, however, is doing quite well. I apologize for the confusion – even members of the trade press can have an occasional oops.

With a recognizable face, Lindemans is one of the leading contenders in the popular Australian import segment – up there with Rosemount and Yellow Tail and gaining more shelf-space as big box stores puff their wine aisles. In the 4-weeks ending July 29, Lindemans showed a substantial climb with a 17.2% leap in volume. In the 12-weeks and 52-weeks ending July 29, the brand grew 11.7% and 8.7% respectively.

Tomorrow I will be speaking with Peter Hall, VP of Marketing, Foster's Wine Estates Americas over such issues as the Southcorp transition and the future of the wine business for Foster’s Group, so stay tuned.