Tell us about the plans for ProWine Mumbai - how are things progressing?
ProWine Mumbai, now in its sixth edition is the largest it has ever been. This time we sold out much ahead of time and have all the show activities completely set and in place. This is a landmark year for India with the announcements and implementation of free trade agreements across the board.
What is the scale of the show now compared to five years ago?
ProWine Mumbai is preparing itself for its biggest show yet with up to 5,500 visitors and over 210 exhibitors from 21 countries
In 2021 when we first launched the show, Covid was retreating. Even then it was the biggest show India had ever seen. Now the show has evolved with many features including this year's release of the Star Wine List for Mumbai, for example.
We have consistent participation from countries all over the world and quality visitor foot fall is at its highest. We also see visitors from neighbouring countries, which is excellent because we would like this show to be important not only for India but for the region.
What do you think have been the key factors in helping the growth in scale and interest in ProWine Mumbai?
The Indian market is booming and has only just started its journey in terms of wine consumption. The potential is phenomenal. Wine is becoming mainstream. Indians have more disposable incomes. This has resulted in a large scale expansion in hotels, bars and restaurants and new modern retail stores.
With the government of India now aggressively signing free trade agreements with major trading partners the market is about to change dramatically. For any brand wanting to enter India, this is the time.
What is the balance now between domestic and international exhibitors and also visitors?
Free trade agreements between India and more key countries around the world is making ProWine Mumbai a much more important and relevant show
I would say it's 20% domestic and 80% international for exhibitors and the reverse for visitors.
You have 21 countries taking part and 10 country pavilions - where are you seeing the biggest increases in demand from international producers wanting to exhibit and international guests?
This year the French Pavillion is the biggest and we have a lot of interest from European wineries and distilleries because of the free trade agreeement.
Is it still possible to book stands and space - how do you go about doing that?
At this stage there is a waiting list, to be put on a waiting list you can email cheryl@allthingsnice.in or nareshR@md-india.com.
In terms of the domestic exhibitors - what is the mix of producers and brands taking part from wine and spirits?
There are a lot of importers showcasing their portfolios and Indian wine and spirit brands at the show. It's more skewed towards wine from the domestic front.
How would you describe the Indian drinks market now vs five years ago in terms of its potential and opportunities of growth?
ProWine Mumbai attracts both domestic and international visitors with a 20% to 80% split
Post Covid the market changed dramatically and quickly. I think more changes have taken place in the last five years than in the last 25 years for both the wine and spirits market. Indian consumption has changed for the better. They are curious, a certain demographic is getting extremely sophisticated and spending money on experiences around wines and spirits.
India is taking off in terms of consumption. We are, however, unfortunately interrupted in growth due to external factors, but once they sort themselves out, India will continue on its path.
For those who don't know Indian market well what steps do you take to help visitors make the most of their visit?
ProWine Mumbai is more than an exhibition, for those new to the market or trade, they benefit from the free masterclasses - almost all of them are hosted by international brands so there's fresh perspective and exposure.
They also have free access to the panel discussions that have key topics and fantastic local experts providing deep market insights and intelligence.
The ProWine & ProSpirits Challenge - a competition that is judged by trade and consumers unveils a strong list of wine and spirits that is liked by the Indian palate and available in India.
And lastly, the ProWine Bartenders Competition is a huge attraction for visitors - the skill and talent from these young bartenders adds so much to the show experience.
What issues and areas of debate are you looking to cover in your masterclasses and seminar programme?
ProWine Mumbai includes a number of panel debates on key trading issues affecting the Indian wine and spirits market
This year we focus on the impact of the free trade agreements on the Indian market for imported wines and spirits. This discussion will be with trade commissioners of various countries and importers.
We also are seeking insight on where the market for wine made in India is heading and where Indian single malt whiskies are heading on the global stage. This will be covered through panel discussions.
For the masterclasses, multiple countries and regions will showcase their wines and spirits with tastings and knowledge sharing. The masterclasses are a big highlight of the show and always extremely well attended.
If you are interested in no and low alcohol products what can you expect at the show?
Prowine Mumbai also hosts ProWine Zero - a spotlight on zero-proof and low-alcohol brands. This is a small section of the show but Zero, LABV, RTD brands are present and even participate in the competition.
Anything else to say?
We are also hosting the Honoring Excellence Awards that is celebration of progress — awarding legacy, acknowledging path-breakers, and recognising inspiring upcoming talent.
We also host the ProWine Mumbai Night - the biggest party of the year for the wine and spirits trade and media.
* ProWine Mumbai takes place between November 18-19 November at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.
* To find our more and how to attend click here.
