Although 2024was a challenging year for much of the liquor industry, it provided an opportunity for Independent Liquor Group (ILG) to continue strengthening its community.
Along with the successful recruitment of new members, the group sustained growth across its retail base in NSW, ACT and Queensland and continued expansion into Victoria.
ILG CEO Paul Esposito attributes this growth to the cooperative’s straightforward retail offering, its rebate structure based on total packaged product sales, industry-leading freight rebates and strong service levels.
Last year, the group also made significant investment in e-commerce and digital marketing, creating a comprehensive solution that opens new opportunities for members by diversifying their revenue streams and enhancing their business capabilities.
“These capabilities include access to a broader customer base, while online shopping enables members to sell to customers outside their immediate geographic area through increased visibility, and the opportunity to trade around the clock,” says Esposito.
Members also benefit from the ability to analyse purchasing habits and adjust inventory, pricing or marketing strategies, use data insights to create personalised campaigns, and deliver a seamless shopping experience that leads to long-term revenue growth.
Enduring success
This year marks ILG’s 50th year of trading, and for Esposito, it signifies a remarkable milestone of longevity, resilience and success.
“It’s a testament to the co-operative’s enduring values, vision, and ability to innovate while staying true to its roots. This golden anniversary is not just a celebration of the past but a launchpad for continued growth and achievements in the years ahead,” he stated.
Throughout the year, the group will undertake an awareness and celebratory campaign, launching in partnership with National Liquor News and The Shout to take the liquor industry on a nostalgic journey, and anchored by the cooperative’s 2025 Let’s Get Together event series.
“Through captivating stories, memorable moments, and key milestones, we’ll showcase ILG’s rich history and the people who have shaped our journey. This celebration is a tribute to the camaraderie and shared successes that define the ILG Family. We hope to see both current and past members join us in one – or all – of these special events throughout the year.”
Preparations for the annual Family Reunion in October are also underway, but the immediate focus for ILG is reviewing its operational efficiencies to ensure it’s equipped to support and service its growing membership.
“This involves assessing our processes, upgrading technology where necessary, optimising resource allocation, and enhancing logistics and distribution channels. By addressing these areas, we aim to maintain our high standards while effectively meeting the changing needs of our members,” Esposito added.
“In addition to operational improvements, our focus remains on growing our membership base. We plan to achieve this through targeted recruitment campaigns, leveraging testimonials, showcasing the value of ILG’s offerings at industry events, strengthening our digital presence and fostering meaningful relationships.”
Join the ILG family
Reflecting on five decades of ILG, Esposito says: “Cooperatives keep industries alive by safeguarding them for the future of their members. ILG was formed 50 years ago for that same reason. ILG gives independent retailers the ability to compete effectively through better buying power.
“Australia’s retail landscape is dominated by three major players that report to shareholders. The ILG shareholders are our members, and our dividends are distributed within the membership. The risk we face with the big three is their dominance on pricing and supply.”
This article originally appeared in the 2025 National Liquor News Industry Leaders Forum edition.