Why it matters: The ranking by Harpers Wine and Spirit magazine's Top 50 Best Indies 2026 assesses merchants on product range, customer service and innovation, with a top-ten placing confirming Adnams as one of the country's leading independent operators.
What they're saying: Nick Attfield, Adnams director of hospitality and retail, said: "We were thrilled to learn we had broken into Harpers' top 10 and are extremely proud to be ranked as the best in East Anglia."
He said the judges praised the company's own-label wine range, customer experience and community engagement.
Head wine buyer Lydia Harrowven added: "This year's placing acknowledges our dedication to ensuring that each wine tells a story of passion, craft, and integrity. We are constantly thinking about how we can excite and inspire our customers."
The details: The ranking assesses drinks portfolio, company ethos, customer service, staff training, innovation and sustainability. Adnams placed 15th in 2024, 11th in 2025, and ninth in the latest results.
For context: Founded in 1872, Adnams operates 12 retail stores across East Anglia and 22 independently-run partner pubs, including The Greyhound in Ipswich and The Butt & Oyster at Pin Mill.
The bottom line: Adnams' climb from 15th to ninth in three years in the Harpers Wine and Spirit magazine places it among the UK's top independent merchants and makes it the highest-ranked in the region.
