UPS today uncorked plans to expand alcohol, wine and beer deliveries to consumers around the world.
UPS said it is helping wineries reach consumers living in 24 of the top 35 wine importing countries, and distilleries in 9 of the top 25 spirit importing countries. Depending on the destination, orders can arrive at the business or consumer’s home within 3 days.
Using one of the UPS Express shipping services, wine connoisseurs can have their favourite cases of wine shipped directly from the vineyards to their home, the company announced. The UPS Express shipping portfolio features three service levels: UPS Worldwide Express Plus for early morning delivery, UPS Express for midday deliveries and UPS Express Saver for end-of-day deliveries.
The company emphasised that all alcohol shipments require an adult signature upon delivery, while it is the shipper's responsibility to know and comply with all applicable international laws and regulations.
According to the International Organization of Vine and Wine, 43% of all wine is consumed in a country other than where it is produced. The global wine market is expected to reach $380 billion by 2022. The countries producing and exporting the most wine include Italy, Spain, France, Chile, Australia, South Africa and the United States.
Europe is the market leader in wine production and consumption. UPS will ship to 23 countries in Europe including these primary markets: Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Moreover, wine consumption is growing rapidly in Asian markets. By 2020, China is expected to surpass the U.S. as the world’s third-largest largest wine importer. The fast growing middle class is driving the demand for premium alcohol. Last year, China imported $890 million worth of spirits globally.
UPS will now ship wine, beer and liquor to consumers and businesses in 11 countries throughout Asia Pacific including: China, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. In Malaysia, only businesses can import wine and beer.
In the Americas, Mexico is earning its place at the table of major wine countries, as consumption has increased by more than 40% in the last 10 years. UPS is shipping wine to Mexico, Argentina and the Dominican Republic. Mexicans are also thirsty for America’s beer, importing $187 million worth in 2016.
Canada and the U.S. are key trade partners and as more Canadians buy products online they’re also adding alcohol to their shopping carts. With the expansion, UPS can deliver to 5 of the Canadian Provinces covering 95% of all alcohol imports. The Provinces include Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec.
