The William Reed Business Media event, which was due to take place September 24 at London's Royal Albert Hall, is aimed at connecting buyers and producers through pre-booked appointments.

Mark Jones, events director at William Reed Business Media explained the decision to Drinks International: “September ended up being very crowded and getting commitment [from participants] was harder than expected.”

Andrew Reed, MD of events and exhibitions at the media company, denied that the postponement was due to a lack of interest among buyers or suppliers, saying the decision was taken in consultation with the event's participants.

He said: “It was driven by both parties. People said they like the idea but asked if it would be possible to do it in March. Having it in March fits into the wine buying cycle and gives people the time to get organised.

"We didn’t want to go head to head with London International Wine Fair but now they have moved from May to June there is an opportunity [for London  2014] in March."

The company said the London 2014 show is set to be “slightly remodeled” but that the “broader strategy remains the same”.