UK: London International Wine Fair director quits

By James Wilmore | 21 December 2012

The LIWF will have a new director for next year's event

The director of the London International Wine Fair (LIWF) has decided to step down after ten years helming the event.

James Murray, who will leave LIWF organisers Brintex on 11 January, told just-drinks today (21 December) that he felt it was time for a “new challenge”. “Ten years is a long time to be working on one project and it was time for a change,” he said.

Asked if his decision was determined by the state of the UK wine industry, Murray said: “There's no doubt that the UK industry is having a tough time and the exhibition is a barometer of that. But I just hope people understand that ten years is a long time.”

On his future, he said: “I have a few irons in the fire, but nothing confirmed yet.”

Murray will be replaced by Ross Carter, currently a buyer at West Sussex-based wine importer PLB. Carter was previously an event manager for the LIWF between 2007 and 2009.

“Ross is a really good guy and has a lot of solid experience on both the events and buying side of things,” Murray said.

Carter will join Brintex on 7 January, allowing for a brief handover period.

Last month, LIWF organisers announced a new advisory board has been established to attract more UK visitors to the event.

The 2013 LIWF takes place between 20-23 May.