Romanian group pulls out of LWF as Brexit hits funding

By Andrew Catchpole

Published: 02 May, 2019

Premium Wines of Romania has pulled out of London Wine Fair (LWF) due to funding issues caused by the uncertainty of Brexit.

While the generic APEV Romania will still be a fixture at the Fair, eight producers from the independent Premium Wines of Romania grouping have taken the decision not to attend following a decision by the state’s department of agriculture to stop funding UK-focused activities until the outcome of Brexit is known.

The producers, representing some of the leading wineries in Romania, had been relying on a mix of self-funding and support from the state to meet the costs of exhibiting in London.

However, with state support withdrawn, and some producers unable to cover the additional funding needed, the remaining wineries decided that attendance was cost prohibitive, especially given that the future relationship of the UK with Europe remains unknown.

“This year, despite a very successful Prowein, the producers have pulled out as the Romanian department of agriculture is no longer willing to give funding for anything relating to the UK market because of the limbo situation with Brexit,” said Robert Marshall, who consults to some of the wineries.

Marshall added that “even before pulling out there had been debate about the worth of going to London” against the backdrop of Brexit.

“It’s disappointing for us all,” he said.

Those seeking Romanian wines at LWF can visit APEV Romania, the generic promotional body for Romanian wines, which represents around 70% of producers by export value.

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