Drinks Ireland and Irish Whiskey Association discuss strategic priorities at Sligo Annual Away Day
Last week, Drinks Ireland – Spirits and the Irish Whiskey Association (IWA) gathered in Co. Sligo for our Annual Away Day and Council meetings. The two-day event provided opportunity for our members, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to network, share knowledge, and collaborate.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Chair of the Irish Whiskey Association, Helen Mulholland, and the entire team at Hawk’s Rock Distillery in Sligo for graciously hosting us.
The Council meetings allowed members to discuss issues facing the industry.
Strategic priorities discussed included:
- Return to zero-for-zero trade arrangement in the USA
- Market Diversification and ensuring further growth of the sector in new and emerging markets
- Maintaining the high standard of our premium products
- Reducing the regulatory burden on our businesses and exporters
We were also delighted to welcome Midlands North-West MEP Nina Carberry for an engaging roundtable discussion on pressing European developments.
With the upcoming Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union approaching, the discussion focused on our advocacy goals. We are championing a future focused on the simplification of regulation, the deeper harmonisation of the single market, and greater political alignment throughout the EU27, all of which are vital to maintaining the global competitiveness of the Irish and EU drinks sectors.
We would like to thank all those who took time out of their busy schedules to see what Sligo has to offer. The investment being made by Sazerac Ireland in the North-West bears testament to the strength of our sector and the region, and we look forward to working with them over the next few years.
