Grape Growers of Ontario publish strategic plan

The Grape Growers of Ontario has re-elected Matthias Oppenlaender as chair and Kevin Watson as vice-chair for 2023. Will George, Beamsville, is the newest member. The remainder of the board comprises: Steve Pohorly and Erwin Wiens of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Joe Schenck of St. Catharines, Doug Funk Jr. of Lincoln, Brock Puddicombe of Winona, Robert Peck of Prince Edward County and Murray Wilson of Harrow.

The organization represents all of Ontario’s processing grape growers in the three designated viticulture areas of the province: Niagara Peninsula, Lake Erie North Shore, Prince Edward County and emerging areas.

The duly elected board has released its 2023-2028 strategic plan. It includes six areas of focus:

• Create equal market opportunities – identify and respond to the various retail channels, including parity with other provinces’ tax structures

• Increase collaboration –establish a Grape and Wine Industry-Government Network and hold regular industry executive in-person meetings to increase collaboration across stakeholders and create a unified industry plan

• Enhance marketing – increase market share of VQA and 100% Ontario-grown wine profitability through a consumer-focussed

Ontario identity and common market message

• Encourage sustainable growth – encourage sustainable growth for grape growers through negotiated grape pricing, enhancing relevant data and establishment of an industry long-term varietal plan

• Influence government policy –influence and evaluate the impact of government policy on the domestic industry

• Ensure industry succession –succession planning to ensure long-term future

Source: Grape Growers of Ontario April 14, 2023 newsletter