Vision 2020 was initiated by Winetech in 1999. Its aim was to produce detailed strategies for the three wine industry sectors - wine, brandy and wine distillates - and other grape-based products. A South African wine industry which is innovation driven, market directed, globally competitive and highly profitable, while retaining strong cultural roots, instituting ethical trade practices and meaningful social responsibility programmes, and implementing strategies for affirmative action, was envisaged. Vision 2020 involved research in three stages over a six-month period each.

A formal representative structure, the South African Wine and Brandy Company (SAWBCo), was established in 2002 with the aim of implementing the Vision 2020 strategic outline. The Wine Industry Plan (WIP) was prepared by SAWB and is a commitment by the South African wine industry to deal with the legacy of a highly regulated economic environment and challenges such as increasing global competitiveness and discrimination along racial and gender lines.

The WIP was prepared by the SAWB through consultation with wine producers, labour, cellars and the wholesale trade; the South African Wine Industry Trust (SAWIT); relevant government departments and agencies; and other important stakeholders in the industry. On 31 October 2003 the WIP was accepted by the Minister of Agriculture and Land Affairs as the strategic framework for cooperation and action in the SA wine industry.

Wine Industry Strategy Plan (WIP)
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