In this week’s roundup, the wine industry learns a few tough lessons from the challenges of 2020 and we explore the evolution of customer behavior post-pandemic. Known for being slow to embrace technology, wineries break from the trend and accept cryptocurrency, QR codes, and contactless payments. Lastly, the extreme weather conditions in the American West are just a preview of what is to come unless policymakers implement real change.

Wine Consumption Surged in Select Markets in 2020–But How Will Consumer Behaviour Change Going Forward?

During 2020 wine consumption surged in some countries, reversing previous trends of long-term decline. Wine benefited from an easy transition to at-home consumption during the pandemic. Now that things are returning to normal, spikes in consumption are expected to moderate but how will consumer behavior evolve?

California Wine Business Takes Tough Lessons Out of the Pandemic

The wine industry is finding that it’s a hard time to plan for the future. The market is not returning to what it once was, there are supply and labor pressures, and the constant threat of wildfires. Explore the difficult lessons that are emerging as the pandemic winds down.

Is the Wine Industry Ready for Cryptocurrency? (Maybe)

The wine industry is notorious for being slow to adopt new technologies so it’s shocking to hear that a few select wineries are starting to accept cryptocurrency. With a lack of widespread adoption, it’s clearly a risk, but those leading the way are willing to take the chance and bet on the possibility that crypto is the future of finance.

The Rise of QR Codes and Contactless Payments

QR codes and contactless payments made a resurgence during the pandemic and are likely here to stay. See how craft producers are using these technologies to enhance the customer experience.

The American West’s Climate Hellscape Is Just a Preview

The west has already seen extreme droughts, heatwaves, and floods this year. And the west isn’t alone—severe weather has plagued California to Syberia, China, and beyond. Scientists have long warned of the dangers of climate change and this is only a preview of what is to come unless policymakers take action.