In a tale reminiscent of the underdog’s triumph, Canada’s pioneering non-alcoholic winery secured a substantial $1M investment on the popular TV show, Dragons’ Den, in January. The brainchild of Tyler Harlton from Pense, Sask., and Chris Pagliocchini, a scientist with Agriculture Canada, ONES has roots in Summerland, B.C. Their journey on Dragons’ Den proved pivotal in crafting wines that mirror the taste and texture of traditional alcoholic variants, with ONES wines boasting only 0.5% alcohol content and zero sugar.
Since its inception in 2022, ONES has transitioned from boutique shops to stocking shelves in nearly 600 stores nationwide. Harlton expressed gratitude for the validation received on Dragons’ Den, marking a significant milestone in their four-year-long endeavor. The Dragons were impressed by ONES’s rapid growth and revenue trajectory, particularly noting the reinvestment of profits into marketing efforts.
Arlene Dickinson, a seasoned Dragon and investor, provided valuable insights to the ONES team, emphasizing the significance of promoting their Canadian roots in the non-alcoholic beverage market. This advice prompted the inclusion of the Canadian maple leaf on ONES’s merlot bottles, aligning with the current trend favoring Canadian-made products.
Beyond business success, ONES’s journey holds personal significance for its owners, extending beyond expanding their market reach. Harlton highlighted the importance of offering quality non-alcoholic wine options to individuals who prefer or need to abstain from alcohol, combating societal stigmas associated with non-alcoholic choices. The success of ONES resonates with individuals like Katherine Herback, who seek alternatives due to health reasons, fostering a more inclusive drinking culture.
By securing a $1M investment deal from beverage industry leader Manjit Minhas, ONES’s founders, Harlton and Pagliocchini, are poised to propel their venture to new heights, signaling a promising future for the burgeoning non-alcoholic beverage industry. Cheers to ONES and their commitment to revolutionizing the wine landscape.
