–           celebrating local flavours and craftsmanship

PROPA Local Wines and Teas was officially recertified with the prestigious Made in Guyana mark on Thursday, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to quality and compliance with standards set by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS).

The milestone was achieved under the leadership of entrepreneur Abigale John, of Buxton, Middle Walk, East Coast Demerara.

Operating under the trademark “A true Guyanese celebration of local fruit flavours and craftsmanship”, John expressed pride in reaching such a high standard within a year of launching her wines, followed by teas just six months later. “It was no easy feat, but it reflects our dedication to producing quality products that showcase the best of local ingredients,” she said.

Trevor Bassoo, Executive Director of GNBS, highlighted the significance of the recertification.

“Propa Local Wines and Teas was first certified in August 2024 after meeting all requirements of the Made in Guyana programme. Today, we are proud to extend this certification, recognising the business’s ongoing commitment to quality and excellence,” he said.

Bassoo commended the wide range of beverages produced by the company, noting that the recertification demonstrates the benefits of the Made in Guyana programme, including increased visibility, market access, and national pride.

He also acknowledged the broader work of the GNBS in supporting local businesses through certification, technical assistance, training, and standards development.

He highlighted recent initiatives, including the launch of the Brand Guyana Gondola at Massy, which features over 50 Made in Guyana certified products, including Propa Local Wines and Teas, showcasing excellent packaging and consumer appeal.

Bassoo also congratulated John for her innovation and for transforming local raw materials into products that boost the local economy and consumer choice.

The ceremony also featured remarks from Govindra Raghubansi, Executive Director of the Guyana Manufacturers and Services Association; Kevin Macklingam, Guyana Shop Manager; and Mitra Rajkumar, President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG).

A LOCAL SUCCESS STORY

Propa Local Wines and Teas is the creation of 38-year-old Abigale John, who has quickly established herself in Guyana’s agro-processing sector. Her brand produces herbal teas, fruit-flavoured vinegars, and wines using locally sourced fruits and plants.

Hailing from a long line of farmers and agro-processors, John’s family has been farming in Guyana for four generations, with her brother currently operating the family farm at Canal #1 Polder, West Bank Demerara. Originally running a small t-shirt printing business, John pivoted to wine-making during the COVID-19 pandemic under the guidance of her uncle, Aubrey John, a skilled winemaker. She initially promoted her uncle’s GG Wines before launching her own label.

Expanding beyond wines, John introduced fruit-flavoured vinegars starting with pineapple vinegar, which quickly became popular for marinades and salads. Her product range now includes anti-desma and mango varieties, further solidifying Propa Local as a household name in Guyana’s culinary and beverage industry.

Propa Local Wines and Teas’ recertification under the GNBS Made in Guyana programme not only recognises quality and craftsmanship but also reinforces the growing pride in locally made products. (Credit: Michelle Outridge)