The final Civil Dialogue Group for Spirits was held in late October, allowing positive engagement with the European Commission on the most pressing issues affecting our sector. Among the topics discussed were:
A prominent focus was the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and second lockdowns on our sector. Naturally, the closure of the hospitality sector – a key channel to engage with our consumers – has been a huge challenge for our downstream partners and our sector. This, combined with the effective temporary collapse of airport sales (travel retail sector), consumer confidence at record lows, and drops in revenue across the EU, have made 2020 a veritable ‘annus horribilis’. However, the spirits sector remains resolute in the face of these challenges – the support and cooperation of the European Commission will be vital in the months and years to come as we look towards recovery.
On the MoU spiritsEUROPE updated the European Commission on the progress made – with the continuing onboarding of new co-signees, gradual roll-out of on-pack energy labelling schemes to ensure, as well as data collection on compliance. Early indications show the sector is on track to meet its ambitious targets, notwithstanding a difficult and highly challenging year for many of our members.
The revision of the Spirit Drink Regulation continues, with the European Commission committed to providing guidance and clarifications throughout the legislative process: inter alia, in the coming months, a guidance note on low/no alcohol products is expected.
