Business Spotlight: Elementary Trade Marketing

Elementary Trade Marketing, based in Abergavenny, specialises in trade marketing, brand strategy, and advocacy for drinks brands, helping startups and established labels alike build bespoke marketing, sales, and brand development plans to thrive locally and globally.

Elementary Trade Marketing joined the GlobalWelsh Business Membership Programme to build new connections and contribute to positioning Wales as a global business player. We spoke with founder Nate Sorby to hear more about the story behind the business, its milestones so far, and his vision for the future of Welsh brands...

How did Elementary Marketing start, and what inspired it?

Elementary Trade Marketing had been an idea I’d been developing for several years, but it really came to life after I was made redundant during Covid. Like so many people, I was suddenly faced with a lot of uncertainty and started asking myself: how can I make the most of the skills I’ve built?

At first, I did some consultancy work alongside full-time roles, but when I moved to Wales, I noticed many small and medium-sized brands struggling to access the marketing and commercial support they needed but couldn’t afford full-time hires. I realised I could offer that expertise flexibly, providing real impact without the overheads.

That was the lightbulb moment. Seeing how many brilliant food and drink founders needed guidance inspired me to make it official, and I launched Elementary Trade Marketing in May this year.

What’s your background in the industry, and why drinks marketing?

I first fell in love with the drinks industry when I was about 16, helping out at my local rugby club. I loved the social side, the energy, and the chance to create a great experience for people. By 18, I’d joined Revolution in York, where I got proper bar training, and that really set me on the path.

From there, I spent over a decade in the hospitality industry, working in cocktail bars and managing venues in York, Manchester, and eventually London. London was especially exciting because it was the hub of innovation at the time, and I had the chance to work with brands like Wahaca & The London Cocktail Club. That period really shaped my love for the culture of drinks, hospitality, and brand experiences.

After moving into sales and brand work across Wales and South West, I gained hands-on experience helping small independents grow. I later became Head of Global Trade Marketing & Advocacy for a growing spirits company, expanding it into 50 countries.

That mix of hands-on hospitality, commercial know-how, and brand building is what inspired me to launch Elementary Trade Marketing. I wanted to give small and medium drinks brands access to the expertise, guidance, and support they need to grow and thrive.

What sets your company apart from competitors in your field?

While there are many agencies and independent consultants out there, most tend to focus on large brands with big budgets. They might host events or tastings, but they rarely offer a complete, end-to-end service.

Elementary is different because we specialise in supporting small and medium-sized businesses and offer a full 360 package. We help with strategy, marketing, sales, and brand development, offering a package that works for the client rather than locking them into expensive long-term contracts. It’s about impact, not just retainers.

Being based in Wales, I’m especially passionate about shining a spotlight on Welsh products, many of which are just as good as English, Scottish, or Irish equivalents but are often overlooked. Everything we do is completely bespoke, flexible, and built around each client’s needs, not long-term contracts.

What achievements or milestones are you most proud of so far?

Getting the business off the ground has been huge, but more importantly, giving my clients confidence that they’re on the right path. One standout has been working with djinni Drinks Ltd. They didn’t exist in May, and by November, they’re launching a brand-new product. Being part of that journey, from licensing and legislation to strategy and design, has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

Over the past few months, I’ve been really proud of the work I’ve done with my three clients, helping them feel confident that they’re building something meaningful. Being able to use my knowledge and experience to support young, growing businesses has been incredibly rewarding.

You’re also launching something called the Brand Ambassador Academy. Can you tell us more about it?

Definitely, this is something I’m really excited about. The Brand Ambassador Academy will launch in early 2026. It’s designed to fill a gap in the industry; there’s no formal training or pathway for people who want to move from hospitality into brand ambassador or trade marketing roles.

It will be a three-level programme designed to support participants at different stages of their careers. Level 1 will provide an introduction for those who are new to the industry or just starting out. Level 2 will cater to individuals with a few years of experience who want to deepen their skills and knowledge. Finally, Level 3 will be aimed at professionals with around five to six years of experience who are ready to focus on building and managing global brands.

We’ll also add specialist modules, like design and packaging. The long-term vision is to create a recognised qualification and a talent portal where graduates can connect with brands directly.

Why did you join GlobalWelsh, and how can the community support you?

I joined GlobalWelsh partly for the networking opportunities, but also for the sense of community it offers. Since moving back to Wales, I wanted to connect with local businesses and professionals, and GlobalWelsh felt like the perfect fit. It’s been a great way to meet like-minded people who are passionate about growing Welsh brands and supporting one another.

The experience has already been incredibly valuable, I’ve built strong relationships with organisations like Expert LMS, made useful connections for my clients, and even received support with raising investment.

Looking ahead, where do you see Elementary Trade Marketing in the next few years?

In the next few years, I want to grow Elementary Trade Marketing by bringing in designers, marketers, and export specialists to strengthen our 360° service. The goal is to become the go-to agency for Welsh businesses, helping them scale sustainably and showcase the creativity and quality we have here in Wales. 

A key part of that vision is launching and expanding the Brand Ambassador Academy, developing the next generation of brand advocates and trade marketing talent. Ultimately, it’s about creating real impact and helping Welsh brands and entrepreneurs thrive.

I’m also hosting an event with GlobalWelsh on 20th November called 'An Evening with Tiny Rebel: Building a Rebel Brand' where I’ll be interviewing Brad Cummings, co-founder of Tiny Rebel. I’m really looking forward to it!

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