In a tale reminiscent of a determined small enterprise, Canada’s premier non-alcoholic winery secured a $1 million investment pact on the popular TV show, Dragons’ Den, in January. The brainchild of Tyler Harlton from Pense, Sask., and Chris Pagliocchini, a scientist at Agriculture Canada, ONES has its roots in Summerland, B.C. The duo’s appearance on Dragons’ Den played a pivotal role in crafting wines that embody the flavors and texture expected from traditional alcoholic wines. ONES’s offerings boast a mere 0.5% alcohol content and no added sugar.
Since its inception in 2022, ONES’s wines have transitioned from boutique stores to gracing the shelves of nearly 600 retail outlets nationwide. Harlton expressed his delight to CBC Saskatchewan, highlighting how their journey from kitchen experiments to wide-scale distribution received validation on the show. The Dragons were impressed by ONES’s rapid growth and revenue, especially learning that the profits are reinvested predominantly into marketing efforts.
Arlene Dickinson, a seasoned Dragon and investor, imparted valuable advice to the ONES team, emphasizing the significance of promoting their Canadian roots as a unique selling point. This advice has led ONES to feature a Canadian maple leaf on their merlot bottles, symbolizing their commitment to Canadian craftsmanship. The success of ONES goes beyond business expansion; it signifies a breakthrough in providing quality wine options for individuals abstaining from alcohol consumption, thereby reducing the stigma associated with non-alcoholic beverages.
For individuals like Katherine Herback, who turned to non-alcoholic alternatives due to health concerns, ONES’s success signifies a positive shift in societal perceptions. The show’s climax saw beverage industry leader Manjit Minhas extending a $1 million investment offer to ONES in exchange for a 15% stake, marking a significant milestone for Harlton and Pagliocchini as they toast to a promising future.
