Matthew Clark and Bibendum are merging into a “single customer proposition”, it has been confirmed.

The companies have been owned by C&C Group, the Irish plc, since being bought from Conviviality in 2018.

A C&C Group spokesperson said: “To better serve customers and strengthen our position in wine, we are proposing to integrate the Matthew Clark and Bibendum businesses into a single customer proposition – Matthew Clark Bibendum.

“This will give customers access to our full range, through one aligned specialist team, while removing unnecessary duplication and barriers.

“Our customers will benefit from the value, range and service Matthew Clark is known for, combined with Bibendum’s industry-leading wine expertise and leadership – enabling them to drive profitable growth by serving more and better drinks.

“Partners and suppliers will benefit from a full-market view, unlocking the widest customer opportunity in the UK with a range designed for the evolving hospitality landscape.”

It’s claimed that Walker & Wodehouse, the indie-facing part of the business, will not be affected.

“There is currently no change to Walker & Wodehouse, and we will continue to service the important independent market,” the spokesperson said.

No comment has been made on job losses though it’s thought that several positions have been affected.

The news was shared with producers early this week and received a mixed reaction from those who spoke to The Wine Merchant at Wine Paris.

Some expressed fears that the move would dilute Bibendum’s reputation for wine specialism, while others welcomed the efficiencies they believe the new structure will provide.