Digital Transformation in Georgian Winemaking: Empowering SMEs Through Innovation

Georgia, renowned for its rich winemaking heritage spanning over 8,000 years, is home to numerous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that sustain this ancient tradition. In an era where global markets and consumer preferences are rapidly evolving, these traditional enterprises face the challenge of modernizing to stay competitive. This presentation explores the transformative potential of digitalization for Georgian winemaking SMEs, emphasizing how digital tools can enhance operational efficiency, expand market reach, and drive sustainable growth. The journey towards digital adoption is not without challenges. Georgian winemakers encounter significant barriers, including limited infrastructure, financial constraints, and a substantial knowledge gap. This presentation offers a thorough analysis of the current state of digitalization within Georgia’s winemaking sector, identifying both the obstacles and opportunities. It highlights successful case studies of Georgian winemakers who have embraced digital innovation, providing practical insights and strategies to overcome common challenges. Looking ahead, the presentation will explore the role of emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain in revolutionizing vineyard management and customer engagement. These technologies promise to transform the industry, enabling Georgian winemakers to honor their ancient roots while achieving new levels of prosperity and global market presence. We explore the intersection of tradition and technology, demonstrating how digitization can act as a catalyst for the growth and resilience of Georgia's winemaking SMEs. This article aims to inspire winemakers and stakeholders to embrace digital transformation, which will ensure the development of Georgian wines in a competitive global market.