Wine Australia has released a schedule of export and tourism workshops to help wine businesses grow their exports and wine tourism.
The workshops start in March and are delivered face-to-face and online.
The ‘Growing Wine Exports’ and ‘Growing Wine Tourism’ programs aim to equip wine businesses with the tools, case studies and market insights to capture export and tourism opportunities.
Wine Australia Chief Executive Officer Andreas Clark said wine and tourism were natural allies.
“As our wine exports grow from strength to strength, there’s a real opportunity to maximise the impact of wine and tourism on regional economies,” he said.
“In the year ended September 2018, just 10 per cent of the 1.32 million Chinese visitors to Australia went to a winery. And those 1.32 million visitors spent a total $11.5 billion during their stay.
"With the right approach, businesses can attract more visitors to wine regions and ensure the visitors leave with a lasting connection to their wines…and know how to purchase the wine back home.
‘These workshops and webinars apply a strategic approach to wine and tourism – arming businesses with plans, tools and advice to lessen any risks and increase their chance of success’, he said.
Paris Hokin of Arlewood Estate said the winery’s strategy changed dramatically after learning key global traveller trends.
“We decided to shake up the regular tour time to an ‘Access After Hours’ 4–6 pm Sunset Tour, team up with a local producer to match our premium range ‘La Bratta’ and only accept small groups for a more personal experience.
“The result; all bookings have arrived via our social media channels by first time international and local visitors.”
The program is delivered by Wine Australia in partnership with Hydra Consulting. Online materials have been developed for those who are unable to attend a face-to-face workshop.
To register or save the date, visit www.wineaustralia.com
