At the time of First Quench's closure, these included the Threshers, Bottoms Up, Drinks Cabin, Haddows, The Local and Wine Rack chains.

The number of stores and employees were gradually reduced in the years following, although it remained the largest off-licence chain until the company's demise in 2009.

In July 2003 the company acquired gourmet meal business Leaping Salmon to attempt exploit the natural links between food and wine.

[6] The brand names Thresher's, The Local, Bottoms Up and Victoria Wine were subsequently purchased by Midlands-based newsagent, off-licence and convenience store operator Dave's Discount Group.

[7] The Wine Rack brand was purchased by Convivality Plc (at the time registered as Bargain Booze Holdings Limited).