In a tale reminiscent of a small business beating the odds, Canada’s premier non-alcoholic winery secured a $1 million investment on the popular TV show Dragons’ Den in January. The brainchild behind ONES is Tyler Harlton, hailing from Pense, Sask., and Chris Pagliocchini, a scientist at Agriculture Canada. Harlton, well-versed in the agricultural sector due to his upbringing in the heart of Prairie farms, established their base of operations in Summerland, B.C.
The proprietors of ONES attribute their success in crafting wines that mimic the taste and texture of alcoholic variants to their appearance on Dragons’ Den. Their products boast a mere 0.5% alcohol content and are entirely sugar-free. Since their launch in 2022, ONES has transitioned from niche boutique sales to gracing the shelves of nearly 600 stores nationwide.
Harlton expressed to CBC Saskatchewan the significance of their Dragons’ Den experience, highlighting how it validated their four years of relentless dedication. The Dragons were pleasantly surprised by ONES’s rapid growth and revenue stream, particularly noting the ability to reinvest profits into marketing after compensating themselves and their team.
Long-time Dragon Arlene Dickinson’s advice to capitalize on being a Canadian-based non-alcoholic enterprise resonated with Harlton. As a response, ONES has adorned their merlot bottles with a Canadian maple leaf emblem, aligning with the current trend favoring domestically produced goods.
Beyond expanding their market and advancing non-alcoholic wine technology, ONES’s success holds profound meaning for its owners. It signifies an avenue for individuals who prefer or need to abstain from alcohol to savor premium wine without facing judgment or stigma.
Katherine Herback, a Regina resident battling health issues that necessitated her shift to non-alcoholic options, found solace in ONES’s endeavor. The positive reception of ONES on Dragons’ Den signals a shift in societal attitudes towards non-alcoholic beverages, offering a welcoming space for those with health restrictions or personal choices.
Ultimately, it was beverage industry luminary Manjit Minhas who extended the $1 million investment offer to ONES in exchange for a 15% stake, marking a significant milestone for Harlton and Pagliocchini as they raise a toast to their bright future.