|
|
This year, 90,000 visitors from 135 countries have come to Verona for the Vinitaly wine fair. This is 7,000 participants fewer than last year. Federico Bricolo, president of the organizer Veronafiere, is nevertheless satisfied. He particularly praised the Top-Buyer program: Over 1,000 buyers from more than 70 countries participated. This underscores Vinitaly's ability to attract highly qualified buyers and strengthen the international competitiveness of the Italian wine industry.
With 4,000 exhibitors, the exhibition grounds were once again fully booked, but the mood among the winemakers was mixed. The ongoing crisis in the industry dominated many discussions, while the topics of wine tourism and NoLo products as growth segments spread optimism.
The majority of foreign visitors came from Germany, North America (USA and Canada), Switzerland, Great Britain, as well as Belgium, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, the Scandinavian countries, Poland, and Austria. However, new growth markets are also becoming increasingly important for Italian winemakers. Notably, China, Brazil, Australia, Mexico, South Korea, Thailand, as well as the Baltic states, Serbia, and Singapore stand out. Visitors from African countries also showed strong interest. Therefore, Veronafiere plans to further expand the international format of the fair, including new events in Africa, Canada, and Australia, as well as increased activity in Brazil.
The supporting program with around 100 events in the city center of Verona was well received. It is being expanded year by year, primarily to distract private wine enthusiasts from visiting the fair – with great success. Around 50,000 tasting tickets were sold at "Vinitaly and the City." This event will be further developed as a traveling format – the next stop is Ancona (Marche).
Furthermore, Vinitaly was also a platform for dialogue between business and politics. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida discussed key topics such as export, funding policy, and trends with winemakers.
The next Vinitaly will take place from April 11 to 14, 2027.
(ru – Image: Vinitaly)
More on the topic
.