SPAR, the leading symbol group in the UK, has made its full range of own label wines suitable for vegans from January 2022 onwards. This move comes after a pledge the business made in 2019 to become the first grocer to do so.
SPAR has made the move to ensure its own label range of 70 products is more inclusive and accessible for the growing number of shoppers exploring vegan food and drink.
“More than half a million people took part in Veganuary 2021 and 85% of those surveyed said they planned to at least half their intake of animal products after January*1, but it’s not just vegans driving the demand. People are increasingly looking for vegan products, regardless of their eating habits or lifestyles. As a result we decided that the time had come to create more inclusive ranges that tap into what our shoppers are looking for,” said Adam Georgiou, Brand Manager for Own Label Beers, Wines and Spirits at SPAR UK.
“We have a fantastic range of wines, which we know are high quality and affordable, so already catering to a wide audience. We are confident that there is now something for everyone – whether they are vegan, flexitarian or meat eaters who just love a nice glass of wine.”
The vegan SPAR wine range includes over 70 wines, which have won more than 190 awards between them over the past three years, such as:
SPAR Regional Selection Languedoc Red – this stunning red comes from one of the most famous wine regions in the world, Languedoc in France. It was recently awarded a silver medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards and the International Wine & Spirit Competition 2021. This rouge is full of hedgerow fruit flavours and vanilla oak undertones which is wonderful alongside barbecue and herby vegetable dishes. On promotion at RSP £6.49 until 9th February, usual RSP is £7.49.
SPAR Regional Selection South African Reserve Chenin Blanc – an incredibly smooth white, packed with peach and ripe pear flavours, this Chenin Blanc is from the Breedekloof region of South Africa. Recently certified as Fairtrade and winning a prestigious gold medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition 2019. On promotion at RSP £5.49 until 9th February, usual RSP is £6.49
SPAR Vine & Bloom Rosé – part of a range of three (including a white and red) that has seen +54% growth YoY*2, the vegan Vine & Bloom Rosé was the first overtly vegan wine to hit shelves. Scoring commended status at the International Wine Challenge 2021, this is a lovely brambly and floral light wine that pairs perfectly with vegan sushi dishes and pasta salads.
On promotion at RSP £4.99 until 9th February, usual RSP is £6.49.
SPAR Prosecco Valdobbiadene DOCG – the crown jewel of SPAR’s prosecco portfolio, this multi-award-winning sparkling wine is elegant and lightly fruity, suitable for every special occasion, no matter how big or small. Winning 12 awards since 2017, including a which? Best Buy in that year and, in 2021, achieving two silver medals at the International Wine and Spirit Competition and International Wine Challenge. On promotion at RSP £8.99 until 9th February, usual RSP is £9.99.
“We are really proud to be delivering on our promise to become the first grocer offering an own label wine range that is suitable for vegans. Our vast range boasts many multi-award-winning bottles, which offer shoppers great quality and fantastic value. The new range is exciting for vegans and non-vegans alike and we are looking forward to developing more products to cater for all dietary requirements,” added Georgiou.
All wine from SPAR’s 2021 vintage will be 100% suitable for vegans and available across more than 1,700 licensed SPAR stores across England, Scotland and Wales.
SPAR is supporting the launch of its 100% vegan own label wine range on digital communications, instore and online POS, consumer PR including advertorials, influencer activity, media and celebrity outreach with an estimated reach of 5 million people. The campaign will drive customers to SPAR stores with price promotions. All wines featured in the consumer PR programme are award winning wines and will be on promotion from 3rd January – 9th February 2022.
