On 20 November 2024, the Spirits Summit 2024 gathered key stakeholders from the EU, industry leaders, and sustainability experts at the Residence Palace to discuss the critical challenge of fostering sustainable growth. The event underscored the spirits sector’s potential to contribute to Europe’s competitiveness while navigating global sustainability and trade challenges.
Ian McLernon, President of spiritsEUROPE, opened the Summit by emphasizing the need for a shift in EU policymaking to prioritize economic growth and competitiveness. Highlighting sluggish economic forecasts for the Eurozone and the sector’s €9 billion export contribution, McLernon underlined the spirits industry's role in creating rural and hospitality jobs. He urged the EU to avoid counterproductive policies like trade tariffs and called for regulatory frameworks that balance trade openness with sustainability.
Two-panel sessions on trade and sustainability provided a platform to inspire actionable strategies for achieving sustainable growth. By championing collaboration, innovation, and a balanced approach to regulation, the business sector in general – and spirits producers in particular - has the potential to lead Europe’s journey toward a resilient and sustainable future.
MEP Eric Sargiacomo, Vice-President of the AGRI Committee in the European Parliament, concluded the Summit by reiterating the importance of balancing sustainability and economic viability. He stressed the need for holistic approaches to agriculture, noting the risks posed by trade tensions with China and the US. On a final note, he advocated for supporting the promotion of responsible alcohol consumption through education rather than prohibition, celebrating its cultural and social significance.
