By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
The BC wine industry has welcomed the news that BC wineries can once again ship their products directly to Alberta consumers, reopening that vital sales and tourism channel for the industry.
The resumption of the interprovincial trade follows a new agreement between both provinces today (July 16).
“We are pleased to hear the news that the opportunity to connect with our valued guests in Alberta has been reestablished,” says Mark Sheridan, President of Hester Creek Estate Winery in Oliver.
“Hester Creek creates memorable experiences that serve as the foundation for building lasting relationships with our customers through our wine club and website sales.” This direct to consumer sales channel “further solidifies” the wine club connection he added.
“This announcement could not come at a better time,” said Miles Prodan, President and CEO of Wine Growers BC.
“The end of the Calgary Stampede marks the unofficial start of summer when visitors from Alberta flock to BC, with many of them including a visit to their favourite BC wineries.”
While Wine Growers BC estimates the Alberta direct-to-consumer (DTC) channel to represent only 1.1 to 2.75 per cent of the of the Alberta-BC wine market, DTC shipping to Alberta residents has been a critical component to the growth and success of the BC wine industry, it noted.
“Not only does it allow wineries to provide customers with high-end products often not available in the AGLC, but it also invites opportunities to create lasting connections via their wine club offerings,” it added.
Wine Growers BC underscores its long time advocacy for interprovincial free trade across Canada, with Alberta being a specific focus given the proximity, long-standing relationship, and commitment to the free movement of goods, services, investment, and people within and between the provinces.
“Today’s announcement brings a bit of welcome stability to the BC wine industry. Wine Growers BC thanks Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and BC Premier David Eby for their commitment to removing barriers between the two provinces. We also acknowledge BC MLAs Harwinder Sandhu and Roly Russell for their support in ensuring the relationship between BC wineries and Alberta wine tourists and consumers continues to flourish and grow,” added Prodan.
