After seven years, this is my last contribution to the spiritsNEWS, hence I would like to reflect briefly on the road I have travelled with you, my dear readers if this monthly Newsletter. Over the past years, we have tackled considerable challenges, championed a number of critically important issues, and have made tangible progress on key EU policy files. This is not a given and has only been possible thanks to the unwavering dedication and commitment from the membership, external stakeholders joining forces with us in coalitions, and the colleagues in the Secretariat team – for which I am truly grateful.
Coming together for some spirited lobbying, mobilizing and conveying our views to decision-makers and the public in an understandable and compelling way is what sets the spiritsEUROPE network apart – and what makes it so impactful and successful.
As we look towards a challenging future, this is what will make the difference in winning in the fight for balanced, fair and evidence-based policies, regulations, and treatment of spirits in Europe. To the spirits producers in Europe, I encourage all of you to stay closely involved and remain united on the core issues that matter most for the sector, and to continue to lend your full support to the association as it transitions into a new phase.
As many of you have been asking, the recruitment process for a new Director General is well underway and while waiting for the “white smoke” to emerge, Hervé Dumesny, former CSR & Public Affairs Director at Rémy Cointreau will ensure continued success in the interim.
I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all of you for your support, engagement, and – at times – constructive criticism. This has helped, inspired and pushed us forward and to go the extra mile when needed - and for your conviviality at our many events. It’s been the honour of a lifetime to serve as Director General for this uniquely fascinating and dynamic sector, and I wish all the best to all of you, to Hervé and to my successor!
Ulrich Adam, Director General*
*In his capacity as permanent representative of SPRL ADLOR Consulting
