Skip to content

Franconian Winegrowers Struggle Amidst Soaring Costs and Stagnant Prices

Costs for Franconian winegrowers have skyrocketed, but prices remain stagnant. Now, they're seeking help from the federal minister to save their industry.

There are some wine bottles arranged in shelves.
There are some wine bottles arranged in shelves.

Franconian Winegrowers Struggle Amidst Soaring Costs and Stagnant Prices

Franconian winegrowers face tough times, with costs soaring and prices stagnant. Artur Steinmann, president of the Franconian Winegrowers' Association, describes the current situation as 'not easy'.

Steinmann plans to discuss these challenges with Federal Minister for Agriculture Alois Rainer. The meeting comes as costs for vintners have risen by 30 to 40 percent in recent years. Despite these increases, market conditions prevent price hikes, putting pressure on Franconia's approximately 3,400 vintners.

Matthias Mend of the Bavarian State Institute for Viticulture and Gardening (LWG) suggests that prices might need to be raised to offset these increased costs. However, Beate Leopold from Weinbauring Franken reports that price pressure from international producers and reduced regional consumption are contributing to the struggle. Climate change is also a growing concern, with Leopold noting that while this year's season was 'nice', it's an ongoing worry.

Tourism brings in around 3.9 billion euros to Franconia each year, with wine sales accounting for 300 million euros. Steinmann hopes to discuss strategies to promote regional patriotism with Minister Rainer, aiming to boost local wine consumption and ease the economic strain on Franconia's vintners.

Read also:

Latest