Equalitas continues to grow as a benchmark for sustainability in the wine sector. In just three years, the European certification model has recorded a 139% increase, reaching over 14,500 certified labels and 8.8 million hectoliters of certified wine. Since its founding in 2017, Equalitas has established itself not only in Italy but also internationally.
Currently, 435 certified operations are active in Italy, mainly in Veneto, Piedmont, and Tuscany, with a total turnover of approximately €6 billion. Interest in the protocol is expanding abroad as well, with certified companies in Spain, Sweden, and growing demand from countries such as Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, Belgium, Finland, Denmark, South Africa, Brazil, France, and Germany.
The Scandinavian monopolies (Systembolaget in Sweden, Alko in Finland, and Vinmonopolet in Norway) play a key role in promoting the standard by reserving shelf space for sustainable products.
“The completeness and reliability of the Equalitas standard are increasingly recognized internationally,” says Riccardo Ricci Curbastro, president of Equalitas. “We offer certified companies competitive advantages, such as preferential access to tenders, dedicated retail spaces, and reduced audit requirements, enhancing their competitiveness.”
Equalitas is further expanding its commitment through several new initiatives:
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The “Barbatelle” protocol, which includes the earliest stages of the supply chain.
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The Assessment protocol for service providers, ensuring legal compliance in labor contracts and worker well-being.
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The ECM project, developed with Apra, providing companies with digital tools to measure environmental impacts such as Carbon and Water Footprint.
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A partnership with BNP Paribas to reward sustainable companies with easier access to credit at favorable rates.
All these actions align with the United Nations 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals, which guide Equalitas in promoting sustainable growth across the entire wine production chain.
