Emmanuel Viollet leads Vinitech-Sifel into a new era of innovation

The upcoming edition of Vinitech-Sifel will take place from November 26 to 28 in Bordeaux, gathering nearly 900 exhibitors from 80 countries and over 45,000 professionals. This international event, led by Emmanuel Viollet, promises to showcase the latest innovations and trends in the wine and agriculture sectors. Viollet emphasizes that the fair goes beyond being a commercial space, serving as a hub for technical expertise, global innovation, and strategic connections essential for business growth. Professionals attending can engage in discussions, explore new technologies, and adapt production practices, thanks to a collaborative approach with industry stakeholders.

The event features an extensive conference program tailored to the expectations of diverse industry players, with more than 70 sessions covering technical and practical issues. Viollet mentions that this year's highlights include the theme of commercialization, a critical area for many attendees. New solutions will address the evolving landscape of wine marketing, featuring expert panels on export strategies, product adaptation, and leveraging market opportunities through innovative packaging and technology. Viollet underscores the importance of helping producers navigate a more complex market environment, with sessions offering insights from specialized communication agencies, logistics consultants, and export experts.

Five main themes structure the program: cultivation methods, equipment, services, training, and commercialization. Each topic has been carefully chosen to deliver practical solutions for businesses of all sizes. The 2024 edition will include 70 translated conferences and a diverse lineup of experts, such as researchers and industry advisors. These sessions will tackle pressing issues, including sustainable viticulture, climate change adaptation, and agroecology. Specific workshops will address challenges like frost and hail protection, varietal innovation, and the emergence of low- and non-alcoholic wines. A special focus will be given to diversification, with an entire day dedicated to crops like kiwis, asparagus, nuts, and emerging sectors like olives and table grapes.

On November 28, the spotlight will be on plant-based industries. This dedicated day is aimed at winegrowers seeking to diversify and professionals in horticulture. Workshops and technical sessions will explore new market niches, presenting opportunities for growth and innovation in crop production.

To attract international buyers, Vinitech-Sifel has implemented a large-scale promotional campaign targeting 32 countries, including high-potential markets in Eastern and Western Europe and beyond, such as China and Uzbekistan. The strategic goal is to engage major international operators and producers by facilitating connections that drive global investment and partnerships.

Bernard Farges, the newly appointed president of Vinitech-Sifel, brings valuable experience from his leadership roles at the Comité National des Interprofessions du Vin (CNIV) and the Bordeaux Wine Council (CIVB). Under his guidance, the fair will feature a robust conference agenda, addressing industry challenges like transition and innovation. The program will cover crucial topics, such as wine's societal role, and introduce cutting-edge practices for sustainable and diversified production.

Vinitech-Sifel is also renowned for celebrating innovation through its prestigious Trophies. This year, the Scientific and Technical Committee reviewed 79 submissions, awarding 39 prizes across four categories, including a new commercialization section. The Trophies not only recognize technological advancements but also encourage commercial applications that benefit the industry. Innovations showcased span accessible solutions for winemakers and digital tools that aid in training and attract younger generations to the field.

In addition, the fair will host the International Start-up Village, a gathering of nearly 50 innovative start-ups from France and abroad, underscoring Vinitech-Sifel's commitment to driving forward-thinking solutions.

The new "Vinitech Horizons" space will address essential themes like agroecological transition and career opportunities, featuring a dedicated sphere for professional development. Here, industry leaders, future professionals, and job seekers can connect. There will also be resources on education and job prospects in the wine sector, along with a special focus on sparkling wine and beer production.

Viollet concludes that missing Vinitech-Sifel would be a missed opportunity for any professional in the industry. The event promises a comprehensive showcase of innovations, from vineyard management to packaging and commercialization, enhancing efficiency and quality across the wine supply chain. It will also offer a unique chance to learn, network, and position businesses for future success, with 25% of the exhibitors coming from outside France.