WI&NE - THE WINE INDUSTRY MUST LEARN TO DANCE IN THE RAIN

Article written by Nathalie Parent Dumoulin, NEXT Edition

The challenges of 2024 call for a comprehensive overhaul of the wine sector. It is imperative to enable all players to adapt—whether winegrowers, cooperative wineries, agronomy, enology, or trade professionals.

As they say: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass; it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”

But with adaptation comes investment.

Today, many winegrowers face tight budgets and lack the financial resources to sustain their businesses, let alone implement the necessary changes to address the sector’s sluggishness. However, solutions and avenues for action are available as long as investment aid supports this transition.

The sector is currently facing a structural crisis partly rooted in global overproduction. While various measures are being implemented, it is evident that removing vines will not resolve the issue. Focusing on collaborative efforts and innovative solutions is vital to navigate these challenging times effectively. Together, we can work towards a more sustainable future for the industry.

Storage Cellars

One promising solution is to create a qualitative reserve by building storage cellars. Over time, these stocks are expected to increase in value. Wineries capable of investing in this infrastructure could provide smaller operations with the opportunity to benefit from shared storage spaces for a rental fee. This collaborative approach supports smaller businesses and improves overall efficiency in the industry.

Shared Equipment Sheds

Wineries managing over 40 hectares are investing in equipment sheds to boost profitability through robotized mechanization in their vineyards. This innovative approach enhances efficiency and creates collaborative resource-sharing opportunities within the winegrowing community. Relocating these warehouses away from reception areas enhances the wine estate’s attractiveness for Enotourism activities and receptive events.

“We must actively shape the world of tomorrow by leveraging the right resources and establishing a unified long-term vision, backed by a dynamic action plan that adapts to market fluctuations,” asserts Jean-François Vidal, president of Dune Constructions. “This inspiring vision, supported by the diverse expertise within the WI&NE association, empowers us to collaborate effectively and drive our initiatives forward. Dune Constructions consistently partners with WI&NE members—from surveyors and architects to energy solution specialists and winemaking experts—to deliver exceptional support for winegrowing estates.”

Allan Sichel, president of the International Bordeaux Wine Council (CIVB in French), aptly put it at the AGM last April: “It’s up to us to define what’s next.”

About DUNE CONSTRUCTIONS

With its extensive experience building large-scale storage facilities for industry leaders like Bardinet and Grands Chais de France, Dune Constructions plays a crucial role in empowering wine sector players. We enable them to strategically adapt by consolidating operations or making impactful, coordinated investments, providing a reassuring support system in these challenging times.

To contact our WI&NE expert, Jean-François Vidal: https://www.wi-ne.net/nos_experts/jean-francois-vidal/

For more information: https://dune-constructions.fr and https://www.linkedin.com/company/dune-constructions/

Article written by Nathalie Parent Dumoulin, NEXT Edition, WI&NE Nouvelle-Aquitaine member