Chestnut grows wine arm with Bijou acquisition

East Anglian hospitality firm Chestnut has bolstered its wine division with the acquisition of independent specialist Bijou Wine Merchant.

The deal, for an undisclosed sum, sees Bijou operating as part of Peter Graham Wines, which was itself bought by Chestnut in 2023.

Norfolk-based Bijou offers a selection of premium wines to the trade, and the team brings more than 50 years of industry experience with it.

Chestnut intends the move to be part of its ongoing regional growth strategy, with founder and CEO Philip Turner saying it also demonstrates the company’s commitment to its wine arm.

“This acquisition represents the coming together of two fantastic Norfolk heritage brands, both of which have built up a solid reputation, placing us in the enviable position of being able to cater for much of East Anglia’s independent wine demand,” he said. “We are committed to building on that success and providing a platform for further growth as one team under the Peter Graham Wines wholesale brand.”

Gordon Hall, chairman of Bijou Wine Merchant, will be staying on to provide continuity and said: “Chestnut and Peter Graham Wines are the perfect guardians of our team and customers, and the perfect partners to continue the Bijou journey.

“I have always admired the company’s commitment to the highest standards of quality and service and know the legacy we have built over the years will be in safe hands.”

Chestnut will now launch ‘the Bottle Shop’ in a few of its properties, as well as an online wine offering.

The business’s larger hospitality sites include the Old Bridge in Huntington, which it acquired in 2023, and the Maltings, Weybourne, opening in summer 2024.

Last year the group also won the Cateys Pub and Bar Award.