Villa Maria launches Mandarin websites

 Villa Maria Estate unveils its fully translated Mandarin website in China today at an online launch event through the social media platform Weibo (China’s equivalent to Twitter), a first for Villa Maria and for New Zealand wine in China. 
 
After having successfully launched a Mandarin mobile site in May coinciding with their 50 vintage celebration events in China, the iconic New Zealand wine brand now launches its first fully translated website. With 538 million internet users in China with over half active on Weibo, being seen online is a critical for any brand serious about building their presence in China. 
 
The Mandarin website is only one element of Villa Maria’s digital strategy in China. While showcasing their exceptional vineyards and award winning wines, it keeps consumers, trade and media updated with local content and integrates market specific social media channels such as Weibo (VillaMaria中国). Villa Maria’s newly released 2012 vintage also carries a QR code sticker that directs users to their Mandarin mobile site and gives them the opportunity to join Villa Maria’s 50th vintage celebrations by submitting a congratulatory message. 

The 100% New Zealand owned company is placing a high degree of effort into the Chinese market, as it is their most rapidly growing region. In 2010, Villa Maria appointed their first dedicated Asia market manager and in 2011 they appointed their first China based employee reflecting their commitment to growing the presence of New Zealand wine and Villa Maria in this fast growing market. 

Villa Maria has exported to China since the inception of Summergate Fine Wines and Spirits in 2000 and was the first brand they carried. Summergate has grown rapidly over the past twelve years and have built the enviable reputation for quality wines and service, and for the second year in a row has been awarded the Trophy for Best Importer in the China Wine Challenge in 2011. 

Visit www.villamaria.cn to find out more.