NZ: Better 2014 for wine growers

(Stuff) - The positive gains in the wine industry should filter down to growers next year, with an expected lift in grape prices, according to vineyard trade suppliers.

Almost 70 companies that supply the wine and viticulture industry were represented at the 29th annual Romeo Bragato conference in Blenheim this week.

With more than 600 people attending the event at the Marlborough Convention Centre, it was the ideal forum for suppliers to catch up with one another and their customers.

Andrew Higgins from French vineyard machinery manufacturer Pellenc said the general mood of the industry was much more positive than the same time a year ago.

"Demand for fruit is lifting again, no doubt we'll see the average price up around the $1700-$1800 a tonne next season," Mr Higgins said.

That positivity had translated into increased sales by the larger corporate companies, but it was still to filter down to the growers, he said.

"By next season, hopefully the growers will be feeling like they are in a stronger position."

The conference was an ideal way to catch up with existing customers and connect with new ones, he said.

"Coming along to an event like this is great, because it's specifically for our target audience, everyone who comes up for a chat could end up a potential lead."

After packing down the exhibitions last night, Mr Higgins was scheduled to fly to France where the vineyard machinery company was to unveil its latest range, which would be in the country in time for the 2014 harvest.

Tasman Crop Marlborough regional manager Laurin Gane said there appeared to be more people from out of town compared to last year's conference.