Berry Bros. & Rudd, Britain’s oldest wine and spirits merchant and a long-time favourite of the Royal Family, is preparing to open its first retail store in the United States, choosing Washington, D.C. as the location for its American debut.
Founded in 1698 and a holder of a Royal Warrant since the reign of George III, the iconic firm is widely regarded as a symbol of British tradition and quality. While Berry Bros. & Rudd already has an international presence through offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, and its historic London headquarters, this will be its first standalone retail outlet in the US.
A company spokesperson confirmed the expansion, saying, “This marks a key milestone in our international growth and we look forward to serving a wider community of customers across the US.”
The move reflects a rising appetite among affluent American consumers for British heritage and craftsmanship, particularly brands with aristocratic or Royal connections. Luxury retailers such as Fortnum & Mason and shooting outfitter Holland & Holland have seen increased success in the US, with the latter reporting a fivefold surge in sales driven by wealthy buyers in states like Texas.
“There’s always been a long-standing appreciation for the brand in the US,” a Holland & Holland executive recently said. “Affluent Americans love the English aristocracy, Royal family and our links with them.”
Berry Bros. & Rudd’s expansion comes at a time of renewed UK-US diplomatic engagement. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer invited former President Donald Trump for a formal state visit on behalf of King Charles, a move celebrated as a diplomatic success. The two countries also recently signed a new trade deal, hailed by Starmer as a “fantastic, historic day.”
Despite warming political relations, UK exporters continue to face hurdles selling into the American market, including 10 per cent tariffs on several product categories. Domestically, Berry Bros. & Rudd has also been under pressure, citing rising National Insurance contributions, new tax regulations, and higher inflation as reasons behind recent job cuts. In January, the company announced it would reduce its 400-strong workforce by approximately 30 roles.
Emma Fox, Chief Executive of Berry Bros. & Rudd, described the decision as difficult but necessary in the face of “extremely challenging global market conditions.”
As financial pressures mount at home, industry insiders say that more British wine merchants may follow Berry Bros. & Rudd’s lead in seeking growth abroad. “The fine wine business is beginning to move out of the UK,” one senior executive warned.
For Berry Bros. & Rudd, the new Washington store may signal not only confidence in American demand but a strategic shift in response to an increasingly challenging domestic landscape.
