Grapes of Change Quality Label

The European wine sector is changing. Buyers, retailers, visitors, workers and public institutions increasingly expect businesses to demonstrate responsible, professional and inclusive practices. At the same time, creating workplaces that are safe, respectful and free from harassment is becoming an essential part of long-term sustainability and business success. The Grapes of Change Quality Label helps wineries and wine businesses make this commitment visible. It is a practical, sector-specific recognition designed for the realities of the wine industry, including family-run wineries, cooperatives and SMEs.

The Label is based on a simple achievement system. Rather than evaluating complex policies or requiring extensive documentation, it recognises practical actions you have already implemented. Eight achievements are available across four areas. Each is worth 1 point, except the gender-equality plan (GEP / GEP-lite), worth 2 points. The Label is awarded at three levels, and not below 2 points.

In total, 9 points are available. The more practices you put in place, the higher your level: from a meaningful first step (Base), to consistent action across several areas (Gold), up to a mature, sector-leading approach (Platinum).

Base

2+ points
  • A meaningful first step towards inclusive and professional workplace practices.

Gold

4-5 points
  • Consistent action across several areas.

Platinum

6+ points (from at least 3 areas)
  • A mature, well-established approach that can inspire the wider sector.

Once your achievements are verified with your national partner, you may display the Label and the level achieved (Base, Gold or Platinum) on your website, communications and marketing materials. Detailed verification and communication guidelines will be provided by the project.

Each achievement corresponds to a specific area and a dedicated number of points.

  • 1. Adopt a basic code of conduct or anti-harassment protocol 1 Pt

    Policy & protection

  • 2. Define an internal reporting procedure or confidential channel 1 pt

    Policy & protection

  • 3. Designate an internal reference person for confidential disclosures 1 pt

    Policy & protection

  • 4. Put in place a GEP or GEP-lite (a simple template, or an annual plan with at least 3 specific gender-equality actions) 2 pts

    Gender-equality planning

  • 5. Introduce a measure for worker attraction or retention through inclusive practices 1 pt

    Talent attraction

  • 6. Update onboarding materials to include rights and reporting information for new and seasonal staff 1 pt

    Talent attraction

  • 7. Enrol at least one HR manager, owner or worker in Grapes of Change training (5D or HR capacity modules) 1 pt

    Awareness & training

  • 8. Organise an internal training or awareness session based on project materials 1 pt

    Awareness & training

Attract and retain talented workers

Finding and keeping skilled staff is increasingly difficult across the wine sector. The Label recognises organisations that invest in safe, professional and attractive working environments: a declared advantage in attracting and retaining qualified people, including seasonal workers, and a way to stand out to current and future employees. Inclusive and respectful workplaces also help reduce the risks of harassment, discrimination and staff turnover, particularly among women and seasonal workers.

Prepare for market expectations

A growing number of major buyers are building social-sustainability requirements into their supply chains: from the Nordic state monopolies (Systembolaget, Vinmonopolet, Alko) applying the Amfori BSCI code, to ethical standards in importer contracts such as Direct Wines / Laithwaites. Schemes like UNI/PdR 125:2022, WIETA and Fairtrade increasingly act as access conditions to premium catalogues. The Label helps you build the practices these markets are beginning to require.

Strengthen your reputation

Consumers, visitors and business partners increasingly value organisations that demonstrate responsible practices. Wine-tourism visitors, particularly from Anglo-Saxon and Nordic markets, are increasingly drawn to experiences associated with inclusion and social responsibility. The Label is a visible, credible way to communicate this.

Position your business for new opportunities

Across Europe, gender equality, worker wellbeing, and social sustainability are becoming increasingly important in funding and procurement. The Label offers a practical, step-by-step framework—accessible even for SMEs without dedicated HR resources—to help organisations align with evolving EU requirements and prepare for certification schemes such as UNI/PdR 125:2022 if they choose.

Organisations awarded the Grapes of Change Quality Label receive:

  • A Grapes of Change Quality Label to display
  • The right to use the Label in your communications and promotional materials
  • Visibility through Grapes of Change channels and activities
  • Recognition within a European community of forward-looking wine businesses
  • Access to networking, events and project opportunities
  • Practical tools and resources developed through the project
  • Recognition of your commitment to gender equality, workplace wellbeing and respectful, harassment-free workplaces.

Get started!

Many wineries already meet several of the criteria, you may be closer to earning the Label than you expect! Follow the steps below and discover which Quality Label level your organisation may already qualify for.

  • Contact your national Grapes of Change partner.
  • Join the Grapes of Chance Community.
  • Take part in a short, free orientation conversation.
  • Identify the achievements your organisation already meets.
  • Receive guidance on simple, achievable next steps.
  • Earn your Quality Label.