Attending Wine Paris 2025 was an eye-opening experience, highlighting the growth of the global wine industry and the challenges that still need to be addressed.
From record-breaking attendance to an increase in international participation, the event showcased many exciting trends. However, what stood out to me the most was the significant growth in the representation of women of color compared to my first visit in 2022.
Record-Breaking Attendance
Wine Paris 2025 was a total hit when it came to turnout. It pulled in an impressive 52,622 visitors from 154 countries, proof that this wine fair is seriously one of the big leagues. The huge crowd showed just how far-reaching and influential the event has become, bringing together wine pros from every corner of the globe. With such a mix of people, producers, distributors, sommeliers, and wine lovers, the whole place was buzzing with energy, making this year’s event something truly unforgettable.
Increased International Participation
One of the most notable trends at Wine Paris 2025 was the growth of international participation, which was evident in both the number of exhibitors and the variety of countries represented. The fair saw 54 exhibiting countries, and the international section experienced an 80% increase in floor space compared to 2024. A total of 116 international pavilions were featured, with eight new countries entering the exhibition for the first time. This increase in international exhibitors highlights the global interest in wine production, and Wine Paris provided an essential platform for these emerging regions to showcase their unique wines and styles.
The Struggles of Small Producers
Despite the overall success of the event, one of the recurring challenges I noticed was the disparity in attention given to small producers versus larger, well-established brands. While the fair was teeming with visitors, many smaller stands, particularly those from boutique producers, did not attract the foot traffic they deserved.
I had the opportunity to speak with one such producer, and they shared with me their insights at how many attendees were only visiting the larger, more prominent stands. These big producers had a steady stream of visitors, often overshadowing smaller producers who had incredible wines to offer but struggled to make meaningful connections with potential buyers/customers. These smaller producers often bring a lot of innovation to the table, offering wines that are distinct and reflective of their unique terroir, and they deserve more recognition.
Diversity and Representation: A Positive Shift
When I attended Wine Paris for the first time in 2022, I was one of the few women of color at the event. The lack of diversity was a stark reminder of how far the wine industry still had to go in terms of inclusivity. Fast forward to 2025, and I saw a notable increase in the representation of women of color in various roles, from producers and sommeliers to event organizers and attendees.
It was refreshing to see more women of color actively participating in the event, not only as visitors but also as exhibitors and speakers. Many of these women were running their own wine businesses, representing wineries from regions around the world. The diversity in terms of both ethnicity and role was a positive change and made the event feel more inclusive and reflective of the broader, global nature of the wine industry.
The growth I witnessed at Wine Paris gives me hope that the wine industry is evolving in a positive direction, creating space for a more diverse range of voices and experiences. It was inspiring to see women of color taking center stage at Wine Paris 2025, and I look forward to seeing how their representation will continue to grow in future events.