Grapevine nurseries raise prices for survival

Grapevine nurseries in France are raising the average price of grapevine plants due to rising costs and falling sales, as they struggle to stay afloat amid the ongoing wine crisis. The French Federation of Grapevine Nurseries (FFPV) has warned that the current average price of 1.60 euros per plant is no longer sufficient to cover their expenses.

FFPV highlights declining plant numbers

Members of the FFPV revealed that the number of grafted grapevine plants planted has dropped significantly, from over 200 million in 2023 to 132 million in 2026. This decline has put pressure on nursery growers, who are now seeking ways to stabilize their industry.

FFPV seeks higher prices and better contracts

Giovanni Varelli, vice-president of the FFPV, suggested that raising the price of a grapevine plant to 2 euros could help nurseries survive. He noted that this increase would only add 2 cents per plant per year to the cost for vineyard growers, who typically amortize their investments over 20 years.

FFPV calls for stronger relationships with vineyard growers

Christophe Raucaz, president of the FFPV, emphasized the need for nurseries to build more secure and sustainable relationships with vineyard growers. During the federation’s congress, they distributed a practical guide on commercial contractualization to support this effort.

FFPV seeks government support and clearer policies

The FFPV has been in discussions with the Ministry of Agriculture regarding contractual agreements between nurseries and vineyard growers. Raucaz warned that future government support for the sector would depend on the federation’s response to the ministry’s call for stronger collaboration.

FFPV struggles with unsold stock and funding

Despite the push for better contracts, the FFPV has not yet received the 30 million euros it claims is needed to clear unsold plants from the last two seasons. This financial shortfall adds to the challenges faced by the already shrinking number of grapevine nurseries.

FFPV strengthens ties with viticulture sector

The FFPV is working to integrate more closely with the viticulture world, aiming to develop better planning tools for plant needs. Industry leaders have acknowledged the importance of nursery growers in ensuring the quality and sustainability of French vineyards.

FFPV joins powerful agricultural federation

To gain more visibility and support, the FFPV joined the National Federation of Agricultural Producer Unions (FNSEA) in March. This move aims to ensure the grapevine nursery sector is included in viticulture support programs and policy discussions.

New regulations on flavescence dorée open for feedback

The French government has launched a public consultation on a draft decree aimed at replacing the 2021 regulations on combating flavescence dorée, a disease affecting grapevines. The new rules include containment measures, exemptions for disease-free zones, and compliance with EU standards. The consultation runs until October 30, with the decree expected to take effect in 2027.