Gusbourne to delist from AIM during strategic shift

Gusbourne, the English vineyard based in Kent, has announced its intention to delist from the London Stock Exchange’s AIM market. The post Gusbourne to delist from AIM during strategic shift appeared first on The Drinks Business.

Feb 21, 2025 - 12:48

Gusbourne to delist from AIM during strategic shift

Gusbourne, the English vineyard based in Kent, has announced its intention to delist from the London Stock Exchange’s AIM market.

The board cited the disproportionate costs and regulatory burden of maintaining its listing as the key reasons behind the decision, which will be put to a shareholder vote on 7 March. If approved, the company will officially leave AIM on 19 March. According to InsiderMedia, Gusbourne’s board stated that it anticipates annual cost savings of at least £250,000 following the delisting. Additionally, the company has highlighted the lack of liquidity in AIM trading as a limiting factor in its strategic flexibility. The decision follows a turbulent period for Gusbourne, which has been listed on AIM since 2012. In 2023, Lord Ashcroft — majority shareholder via Belize Finance — initiated a strategic review, leading to the vineyard being put up for sale. However, the process concluded without securing a buyer.

From surgery to sparkling success

Gusbourne was founded in 2003 by South African orthopaedic surgeon Andrew Weeber, who saw the potential of English terroir for premium sparkling wine production. He launched the estate with 50 acres under vine, focusing on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Since then, Gusbourne has expanded significantly, now cultivating 60 hectares in Appledore, Kent, and a further 30 hectares near Goodwood in West Sussex. Weeber, who sold 141 hectares to Lord Ashcroft for a reported £7 million in 2013, stepped down as a non-executive director in 2023. Under his leadership, Gusbourne’s inaugural releases — the Brut Reserve 2006 and Blanc de Blancs 2006 — received critical acclaim, establishing the estate as a key player in the English sparkling wine sector.

English wine industry on the rise

Gusbourne’s delisting comes at a time of unprecedented growth for the English wine industry. According to government data, 87 new vineyards were registered in 2023, pushing the total number beyond 1,000 for the first time. The area under vine now spans 4,209 hectares — an increase of 123% in the past decade. Winemaking facilities have also grown, with winery numbers rising from 209 to 221. Industry leader Chapel Down, also based in Kent, recently reported strong trading in the on-trade, export and direct-to-consumer channels, despite challenges in the off-trade sector due to macroeconomic pressures. The sector continues to be dominated by sparkling wine, which accounts for 76% of total English wine sales.

The future for Gusbourne

Gusbourne remains committed to its long-term growth strategy, with a particular focus on direct-to-consumer sales and premium positioning. The company has seen strong results from its cellar-door sales and online channels, aligning with broader industry trends that favour direct engagement with wine enthusiasts. Despite economic headwinds, Gusbourne continues to demonstrate resilience. CEO Jonathan White summarised the company’s outlook in a company statement, stating: “Despite this backdrop, we have continued to see significant consumer demand for Gusbourne’s wines, serving more B2B and B2C customers than ever before, and all underpinned by careful ongoing investment in the brand and the unwavering commitment and dedication of our talented team.”