B Corp-certified wine distributor and importer North South Wines has expanded its presence at Bicester Motion, the 444-acre future mobility estate in Oxfordshire, to relocate its headquarters to a significantly larger facility as the business continues to grow.
The company has moved from the Guard House, Building 89, into the Command Works, Building 144, to increase its footprint from approximately 1,500 sq ft to 2,500 sq ft (139 sq m to 232 sq m). The new space will house North South Wines’ wine distribution and importer operations and 37 staff to enable the business to scale operations and enhance its sustainability-focused approach.
Since joining the estate in 2023, the business has grown from an annual turnover of £25 million to reach £40 million. The 12-year old business was the UK’s first B-Corp wine importer, which reflects its commitment to high standards of environmental and social responsibility. Sustainability is embedded throughout the company’s operations which includes initiatives such as having already planted more than 12,100 trees as part of its long-term environmental commitments.
While the company has global connections, it remains a local success story. The founder, Kim Wilson, was born in nearby Aylesbury and grew up in Bicester, attending school locally. These local ties are evident in the community support the business provides, such as fundraising for Oxfordshire based charities Restore and Get Fed.
As a female entrepreneur, Kim also supports initiatives helping to make the drinks industry more accessible to women, such as Raising the Glass, and local networking groups.
North South Wines’ responsible approach to business aligns closely with the values that underpin the Bicester Motion campus – a community centred around progressive thinking, sustainable practices and innovation.
Kim Wilson, founder and managing director, North South Wines, said:
“We’re incredibly excited to expand our presence at Bicester Motion. Moving into a larger space gives us the capacity we need to continue to grow our wine distribution operations while staying true to our sustainability commitments. Staying local is extremely important for us and we love being part of the site community as well as the wider Bicester community.”
The move to Building 144 has been supported by the Bicester Motion team as part of its wider strategy to help ambitious businesses grow within the estate.
Daniel Geoghegan, CEO, Bicester Motion, added:
“Bicester Motion is home to businesses that are pushing boundaries and thinking differently about the future, so it’s fantastic to support North South Wines as they expand their operations with us.
“Their commitment to sustainability and responsible growth aligns strongly with the ethos of our community. We’re proud to have worked with them to facilitate this move and look forward to seeing the next stage of their journey at Bicester Motion.”
Acting on behalf of Bicester Motion were Adalta Real and Savills.
