Economic Impact of Sustainability in Wine Sector: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Sustainability has become a key issue in the wine sector, raising questions about its compatibility with firms' economic performance. Despite growing attention to environmental and social practices, evidence on their economic implications remains fragmented. Building on the existing literature, this paper aims to clarify whether, and to what extent, sustainability practices translate into economic sustainability and competitive advantage for wine firms. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, analyzing 106 peer‐reviewed studies retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science. Drawing on a competitive advantage framework, the review examines the economic effects of sustainability across three dimensions: production performance, market performance, and overall economic outcomes. The analysis integrates firm‐level evidence with demand‐side studies, including consumers' willingness to pay for sustainability attributes. The results reveal heterogeneous evidence regarding the association between sustainability and economic performance. Resource‐efficient practices often support cost reductions, while capital‐intensive investments may negatively affect short‐term profitability. On the market side, sustainability can enhance differentiation and reputation, although price premiums are generally moderate and confined to specific consumer segments. Overall, economic benefits tend to emerge primarily in the medium to long term when sustainability is strategically integrated into firms' operations and market positioning.