Mark Riches to advise Bottega

Italian premium food and beverage company Bottega has appointed Mark Riches as a senior advisor to the company. Sandro Bottega commented that he is “very glad” to have someone of Mark’s experience and stature to support the growth and development of the business. “We have been working quietly together for several months and we are very pleased with progress," he said.

Mark said “I've known Sandro for several years ever since we successfully introduced his products to WDF. His passion for all aspects of his business is contagious and it is an absolute delight to be working with him and his talented and committed Team”.

Mark has spent the whole of his career in retail operating at MD and CEO level for many years. The early part of his career was with Marks & Spencer including eight years in Paris with the French operation. He joined BAA as commercial director of Heathrow and subsequently was appointed MD and then CEO of World Duty Free overseeing spectacular growth of that business during his 11 year tenure. Since he stepped down in 2010 he set up Braid Retail, his own consultancy, and has worked with many brands and airports on specific projects. He has also held other non-exec positions with travel retail related businesses.

Mark's current priority is the development of The Bottega Prosecco Bar & Cafe for both the travel retail and domestic markets. He will also support Sandro Bottega on strategic growth plans.

Bottega is family company led by Barbara, Sandro, and Stefano Bottega and located in Bibano, Treviso  that produces and distributes typical Italian premium quality beverages and food products to a global market.

Its headquarters are located in a 17th-century farmhouse surrounded by 10 hectares of vineyards.

The group also manages a winery in Valpolicella and one in Montalcino, plus several different brands, amongst which are Alexander, Bottega and Cantina dei Poeti. With the goal of producing and distributing the best Italian wine, grappa, spirits, and food all over the world, Bottega advocates Quality (Italian taste and authenticity), Design (expression of the excellent aesthetic character of being made in Italy) and Social Responsibility towards the environment and the community.

28 October 2013 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor