I’m speaking of course about the drinks trade only Boutique RumFest being held on the Friday before RumFest weekend.  There may well have been a little confusion arising over the last week or two – so let me explain a little about what you might expect to enjoy at Boutique RumFest.

This event is for brands new to the UK who are looking for a UK partner to work with existing brands that have a brand new ‘niche’ product or small companies looking to get their products in front of the target audience of wholesalers, distributors, spirit buyers, VIP’s, bar professionals and importers from all over Europe.  If you’ve not taken a look at the Boutique RumFest website – then you really should take a moment to do so, especially if you feel you fall into one of the categories above.

When I recently spoke to Ian “Rum Ambassador” Burrell about the format of the Boutique RumFest, I was left with little doubt that Ian will be doing his best to give those companies with a smaller budget the opportunity to display on a level playing field with companies with much bigger purse strings.  I’m quite excited by this and can’t help but think this gives the best opportunity for the rum in question to shine, rather than it being lost in a glossy haze of marketing.

When I look at the brands who are exhibiting at Boutique RumFest, I can see real diversity.  DonQ is a massive brand outside the UK, but as it is not established in the UK yet.  It’s looking to let people know that it’s now available here in the UK and that you should “come talk to us”, a situation that’s in common with more than one brand presenting.  Some brands I know – some I’ve never heard of and will be really looking forward to finding out more about them.

I see other rums that are brand new – not yet available anywhere in the world and eager for attention and of course there will be brands that set themselves or their particular product out to be super premium and will never go mass market and high volume.

So irrespective of whether the brand is small and specialist or limited edition and luxury (like a boutique hotel) it's going to be a real “kid in a sweetshop” moment for me when I walk through those doors!

I just can’t wait!

Pete