The
new strategic service will operate under the auspices of the industry
organisations VinPro and Salba (SA Liquor Brandowners’ Association), from the
offices of Agbiz (Agricultural Business Chamber) in Pretoria. Its main focus
will be strengthening relationships with various national government
departments and related stakeholders on key issues such as water and land
reform, transformation, trade facilitation and market access, while promoting
the image of the South African wine and brandy industry.
Michael
Mokhoro has been appointed as stakeholder manager to establish the WineBiz
desk. In his previous position as regulatory affairs manager at Distell, he has
gained extensive experience in the field of stakeholder relations, building
networks at various levels of government and other relevant groups.
“Closer
collaboration with government on various fronts is a key priority for the South
African wine and brandy industry. We are confident that the WineBiz desk, and
especially Michael’s expertise, will open up continuous dialogue on legislative
and other relevant issues to the benefit of the industry,” said Rico Basson,
VinPro managing director.
Salba
CEO Kurt Moore, emphasised the importance of the WineBiz desk being situated in
Pretoria at the offices of Agbiz. “The fact that it is geographically close to
National Government, as well as Agbiz’s existing ties with similar stakeholders
WineBiz will focus on, will undoubtedly unlock various synergies.”
The
WineBiz desk will be operational from 1 November 2015. It is a key outcome of
the Wine Industry Strategic Exercise (WISE), through which the industry aims to
boost profitability, global competitiveness and sustainability.
Salba
is a voluntary trade association representing the interests of manufacturers
and distributors of alcoholic beverages, and VinPro is the independent
organisation that provides specialist services to South African wine producers
and cellars and represents them on various forums.