THE Motibhai Group held its Henkell’s Sparkling event at Nanuku on Thursday, promoting its selection of sparkling wine from the world renown brand to locals and guests. “The event is to promote availability and offering of the products under this brand to enhance guest experience,” Motibhai Group business development manager Wines & Spirit Nitesh Chand said.
The company is currently on a promotional tour to hotels on the Coral Coast and in Denarau.
The renowned Henkell Freixenet is the world’s largest sparkling wine producer and is available in Fiji through the Motibhai Group via their partnership, now into its fifth year.
Head of Henkell Freixenet Oceania Phil Wells highlighted strong growth and future potential for the company’s presence in Fiji.
With more than six years at the company, including two as managing director and over 20 years in the wider liquor industry, Mr Wells brings extensive experience to the role.
“I’ve been with the company for six years, and in my current position for two,” he said. “The wider industry experience has certainly helped shape our growth strategy across Oceania.”
The company currently supplies three key brands—Henkell (Germany), Freixenet (Spain) and Mionetto (Italy)—offering around eight different products in various styles and formats, alongside a premium champagne from its French portfolio.
“When we started, we had very modest expectations as a new entrant, but the growth has been phenomenal, particularly over the past year,” he said.
Globally, sparkling wine continues to outperform other categories.
“Sparkling wine has been the only segment showing consistent growth over the past five years.
“It’s no longer just for celebrations—it’s become part of everyday occasions.”
The rising popularity of Freixenet Prosecco, even in Fiji, has been a major factor driving this trend.
“Prosecco has exploded in popularity, not just in Fiji or Oceania, but globally.”
Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its presence beyond tourism hubs into urban markets such as Suva.
“You’ll start to see a lot more of our brands, not just in hotels and resorts, but in everyday retail space,” Mr Wells said.
With growing demand and a strong local partnership, the outlook remains highly promising.
