An Industry Under Pressure: The Influence Of Economic, Technological And Environmental Pressures On The Social Sustainability Of The South African Wine Industry

The South African wine industry is facing disruption. This disruption is forcing players in the wine value chain to re-evaluate their business models and become leaner. This chapter explores the impact that these major forces of change have on the economic and social sustainability of South African wine producers and vineyards: 4th Industrial Revolution technologies, a three-year drought and changing consumer preferences. The fragile relationship between economic and social sustainability in the 4th Industrial Revolution is highlighted, with a particular focus on the impact of change on employees and labourers.