The General Manager of Beresford Wines, Elvis Nnamdi Onuoha, has said that his firm will create thousands of job opportunities for Nigerian youths through the hospitality, tourism, trade, and entertainment sectors, among others.
Onuoha stated this in an exclusive interview with journalists in Abuja, highlighting the enormous opportunities in the wine and spirits industry, especially as they relate to Nigeria’s growing hospitality and lifestyle markets.
He noted that Beresford Wines is positioned to significantly contribute to employment generation and economic growth through its sales, marketing, distribution, and logistics operations.
“Our activities will provide direct jobs for Nigerian youths and indirectly stimulate growth in related sectors such as hospitality, entertainment, logistics, and retail. We are confident that this will contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic development,” Onuoha said.
He explained that the company’s presence will not only stimulate job creation but also generate revenue through the sale, distribution, and marketing of premium wines and spirits.
“Our company’s activities will have a ripple effect on the economy, stimulating growth across industries,” he said. “We are introducing premium wine brands to the Nigerian market with the goal of attracting foreign investment, promoting economic growth, and enhancing Nigeria’s wine and spirits landscape.”
Onuoha revealed that Beresford Wines’ portfolio features a remarkable selection of globally renowned brands, including the Siglo brand of wines from Spain, offering a premium Rioja experience tailored to discerning Nigerian consumers who seek quality and tradition.
He also disclosed plans to introduce a zero-alcohol Tempranillo option to cater to Nigeria’s growing base of health-conscious consumers.
“Our commitment to transforming Nigeria’s wine and spirits industry by introducing distinguished international brands should be commended. It not only elevates the local market but also provides Nigerian consumers with access to global quality and craftsmanship,” he said.
According to Onuoha, Nigeria’s luxury market is expanding, driven by an increasing demand for high-end products, including alcoholic beverages.
“Nigeria’s elite class is willing to pay premium prices for brands that reflect status and sophistication. Beresford Wines is synonymous with premium, vintage labels, and our reputation has already attracted recognition from top luxury brands in Europe, particularly Spain and France,” he stated.
He expressed optimism about the prospects for Siglo, Armorik, and Leon Launois brands in Nigeria’s luxury beverage market, noting that the company is currently leveraging social media, influencer marketing, and branded events to build awareness and excitement.
“By understanding the local market, establishing a strong brand presence, and emphasizing our unique selling points, we believe these brands can carve out a significant niche in Nigeria’s premium alcoholic drinks segment,” he said.
Onuoha further said that the company is actively contributing to reducing unemployment through job creation in areas such as sales, distribution, hospitality, logistics, and customer service.
“The industry also offers entrepreneurial opportunities for Nigerians to start wine importation businesses, wine bars, restaurants, and services like wine consultancy and wine education,” he explained.
He added that Beresford Wines is committed to its corporate social responsibilities, particularly in the education and healthcare sectors.
However, Onuoha acknowledged the challenges faced by the wine importation and distribution sector in Nigeria, including high import duties, fluctuating foreign exchange rates, and insecurity, which affect logistics and supply chains.
We called on the government to implement stabilizing policies such as foreign exchange, stabilization measures
on concessional import duties to strengthening internal security tax reforms, and trade cooperation with wine-producing countries
“These measures would greatly support the wine industry, which in turn has the potential to generate revenue and provide employment on a large scale,” Onuoha concluded.
