Sam Thackeray

Sam has over 25 years’ experience in the UK drinks industry. Sam rose through the ranks to lead the National Sales team at Bibendum/Matthew Clark, before becoming Managing Director of Enotria & Coe in 2018. These two businesses remain two of the largest premium drinks wholesalers in the UK. Sam subsequently ran Amber Beverage UK (2023-2026). He successfully acquired and integrated two businesses during this period, Indie Brands and Ten Locks. Throughout his career, Sam has leveraged deep on and off-trade experience with the UK’s bars, restaurants, hotels, and supermarkets across both bulk wine, premium wine, and branded spirits. Sam was an early adopter of digital sales, recognizing the growing importance of Amazon and other online platforms in the spirits category. He has just launched a new distribution business, Zoo Drinks, which has an ethos of educate, conserve, nurture, and thrive for the independent brands it represents.