Discover the Future of Wine Tourism at the Eighth Annual Wine Tourism Conference
The Western Cape is currently buzzing with wine tourism opportunities, and there’s no better place to explore this burgeoning sector than at the eighth annual Wine Tourism Conference. Taking place on 30 May at the prestigious Lanzerac in Stellenbosch, this event promises a compelling line-up of international and local speakers under the theme, “The Business Case for Wine Tourism”.
5 Business Cases for Wine Tourism in South Africa:
Michael Ratcliffe on the State of the Industry
Michael Ratcliffe, Chairperson of the Stellenbosch Wine Routes board, brings an optimistic perspective on the wine industry’s future. He notes significant improvements in credibility and premium positioning, with 50% of producers turning profits and the top 10% experiencing unprecedented success. Ratcliffe will delve into how the wine tourism sector can catch up with these advancements, stressing the importance of strategic and deliberate efforts.
Emerging Opportunities
Ratcliffe highlights the Western Cape’s booming tourism potential, especially with the growing number of direct flights from the US and the anticipated Cape Winelands Airport. The recent docking of luxury liners Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria in Cape Town underscores the immense opportunity for the region, though it requires adept management to maximise benefits.
Strategic Collaboration
Ratcliffe emphasises the power of collective marketing and collaboration among wine regions. He advocates for a unified approach that leverages the unique aspects of each area while promoting ‘brand South Africa’. This strategy aligns with Stellenbosch Wine Routes’ Vision 2030, which prioritises value over volume.
Year-Round Tourism
Opportunities abound beyond the high season. Ratcliffe suggests capitalising on the winter influx of US safari tourists and Middle Eastern travellers seeking to escape the heat. By offering a world-class, thoughtful product, the Winelands can leave a lasting impression on these visitors.
Upskilling and Training
To maintain high standards, Ratcliffe advises investing in staff training and mentoring. Sharing strategies and providing incentives can boost performance while employing ‘secret shoppers’ ensures consistent quality.
Don’t Miss Out
Join us at the Wine Tourism Conference to gain insights from industry leaders, explore innovative strategies, and network with key players in the sector. This event is a must-attend for anyone looking to enhance their understanding and involvement in wine tourism.
Book your spot today and be part of shaping the future of wine tourism in the Western Cape.
US wine tourism and marketing supremo Paul Wagner has been marshalled as headline speaker. Other speakers include Australian Peter McAtamney, who heads Wine Business Solutions (Australia); Mike Ratcliffe, Chairperson of Stellenbosch Wine Routes; Mark Wilkinson, director of the Cape Winelands Airport; Kevin Campbell of Delta Air Lines; Francois Rautenbach, formerly of Singita, a highly successful group of luxury lodges across Africa; Eric Matkovich, founder of leading US wine importer Cape Ardor; and Xania van der Merwe, a seasoned wine marketer and customer experience manager.
Sponsored by Wesgro, Delta Air Lines, Stellenbosch Wine Route and South Africa Wine, the day-long event is being convened by tourism and hospitality specialist, Margi Biggs.
The cost per delegate to attend the conference is R4 450 (excl. VAT).
Go to https://winetourism.co.za/register/ or https://qkt.io/DzMUs1 to reserve your seat.
For further details, visit https://winetourism.co.za/.
