Wine Business Continues to Flourish

Markets and neighbourhoods alike are inundated with varieties of wine of various origins.

Trading in wine seems to be a new eldorado for existing and potential businessmen. Cameroon's wine industry may still be in its infancy but its citizens are increasingly embracing consumption. Proof is the increasing number of shops selling wines, spirits and other beverages both in markets as well as in the neighbourhoods. Statistics from the Directorate General of Customs show that imports rose from 9,322 tonnes in 2007 to 12,011 tonnes in 2011.

The number of shops dealing in wine is increasing with each passing day and even those selling assorted items have wine conspicuously displayed on their shelves. Different brands of wine notably French red wine, Bordeaux OAC red wine, grape and fruit wine, alongside spirits like Grants, Martini Rosso, Barleys, Passport Scotch, Chivas Regal, J&B Scotch Whisky and Johnnie Walker, are spicing the markets and dealers in them are making quick cash.

As diverse as the drinks are, so too are their sellers, consumers and countries of origin. Exporting countries include France, Belgium, Italy, USA, Spain, Argentina, Australia, South Africa and Algeria, just to name a few. These countries figure prominently on the list of giant wine producing countries. However, neighbouring countries from north to south and east to west also feed the country's markets. The main local manufacturer is the Société de Fabrication de Vin du Cameroun (SOFAVINC) with three main brands: Vinosol, Casanova and Baron de Madrid.

During a sojourn in some markets in Yaounde at the weekend, Cameroon Tribune did not only observe that shops dealing in wine are increasing in number, but also that their clientele is growing with the business. Giant Yaounde supermarkets like Mahima, Casino, Nikki and Dovv have reserved big spaces on their shelves for wines and spirits. Here like elsewhere, if a cheap bottle of wine costs FCFA 1,500 that of spirits begins from FCFA 3,000. Even though salesmen declined disclosing their profits, the frequency with which customers thronged the shelves testified of a flourishing business.

One of the salesmen who opted for anonymity said better profits are made at weekends and during end-of-year feasts. Manufacturers are also fast embracing innovations like the fabrication of small packs to boost sales.