Restructuring the French Wine Industry: The Case of the Loire

Abstract

The European wine industry faces a crisis of over production and under-management. French wines in particular, long regarded as the benchmark for quality wine, are experiencing acute difficulties. Over the last 15 years, three major studies have been commissioned and published at government level to address industry problems. Taking the case of the Loire as an example, this research examines what has been proposed and the industry response. The signs of change that can be detected are limited. If nothing is done then restructuring will take place at the hands of indifferent market forces. Some proposals are offered for a framework for the future.

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Monsieur Michel Poté Director of Groupe ESSCA in Angers, France and Professor Catherine LeBlanc, Dean, without whom this research would not have been possible. They would also like to acknowledge gratefully, the advice, help and support provided by the following staff of Groupe ESSCA. Madame Carol Chaplais, Director of International Programmes, Professor Jacques Boulay Associate Dean for Research, Monsieur Jean-Pierre Kaufman, Librarian, Monsieur Eric Simon and Monsieur A. Sonntag.

Notes

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Paul R. Gamble

Professor Paul R. Gamble, c/o Groupe ESSCA, 1 rue Lakanal, BP 40348, F-49003, Angers, Cedex 01, France. (E-mail: [email protected]).