Agenda

The speakers have been asked to address issues that directly and indirectly concern them in their industry segment and geographic location. Prominent topics include the effects of climate change and grape varietal choice; labor market challenges and the extent to which automation can lower costs and improve efficiency in harvesting; how regulations constrain and encourage innovation; and changing consumer demographics and how that might influence sales. We also want them to talk about the challenges they face given the size of their winery (many are small case production wineries) and how their sales channels give them a competitive edge or possibly a disadvantage. Since it promotes flexibility, is small size an asset, or can it be a liability when one cannot realize economies of scale? Are they able to capitalize on changes in distribution channels (DTC)? Have they built relationship links with consumers (wine clubs. etc.)? What are some of the key positive aspects of recent industry changes? Challenges that might be difficult to overcome? Finally, they reflect on their country's broad socio-cultural and economic events and how they affect the wine market. What is their realistic assessment of the industry?

The agenda may be changed without prior notice.