To align themselves even more closely with global practice on risk mitigation, Wieta (Wine and Agricultural Ethical Trade Association) launched its new Risk Matrix and Audit Frequency Policy at our AGM on 1 June 2017. The Wieta Risk Matrix aims to formalise a system based on

  • creating transparency of risk and performance of grape and wine suppliers;
  • tracking the continuous improvement of compliance and ethical performance through the allocation of risk categories and
  • variable audit frequencies ranging from 1 to 3 years depending on the risk category of the site audited.

This policy will be effective on all audits done from 1 August 2017. A series of roadshows will be conducted in June and July 2017 to discuss the new policy. These sessions will serve to give our members and their consultants at cellar and farm level a better insight and understanding into how the risk categories work, the new frequency of audits, zero tolerance issues and the revised Fair Labour Certification Seal requirements.

Wieta will continue to ensure that its audits and auditors remain rigorous and set the standards for a community of best audit practice & competence. Beyond the audit, Wieta is excited in the forthcoming year to explore new innovations in continuous improvements with its partners, locally and abroad.

If you have any questions regarding the new policy or would like to hold an information session at a cellar please contact the Wieta office at [email protected].