Brussels, September 12, 2024 – Brewers of Europe appointed Julia Leferman as Secretary General. Her agenda focuses on innovation, responsibility, and sustainability in EU policy. Leferman’s extensive political advocacy experience will guide Europe’s brewing sector through a new era.
Julia Leferman previously led the Brewers of Romania and established Europe’s largest deposit return system (DRS) for beverage packaging. This initiative significantly improved recycling rates across Romania, setting new sustainability standards for the brewing industry.
“As Europe’s brewers’ voice, I am eager to promote beer’s cultural significance,” Julia Leferman said. “Beer supports two million jobs across more than 10,000 breweries. We will collaborate with EU policymakers to keep beer central to economic and environmental conversations.”
Innovation in the Beer Industry
Brewers of Europe will strengthen ties with EU policymakers during the new legislative term. Leferman emphasized the need to stay ahead of consumer trends focused on innovation and sustainability. Beer styles like lower- and no-alcohol varieties demonstrate how the industry evolves to meet preferences.
“The beer industry must innovate responsibly,” Leferman stated. “We combine creativity with craftsmanship, maintaining high product standards.”
2024-2029 Sustainability Manifesto
In 2024, Brewers of Europe introduced its 2024-2029 Manifesto for a Sustainable Brewing Future. The manifesto outlines goals for the next five years, focusing on beer’s role as a lower-alcohol, natural beverage. These goals include job creation, social integration, responsible consumption, and environmentally friendly production methods.
Julia Leferman committed to engaging EU policymakers to ensure these objectives become central to the EU’s policy agenda. Consumer interest in sustainability and environmental awareness continues to grow, aligning with the brewing sector’s progress.
“When enjoyed responsibly, beer complements a balanced adult lifestyle,” Leferman said. “We want the EU to view us as leaders in responsibility and sustainability. Brewers Europe leads the way in sustainable packaging, energy-saving production, and positive economic contributions.”
Strengthening Industry Relationships
Leferman’s leadership signals closer alignment between the brewing sector and EU policies on sustainability and innovation. Her political expertise will help the brewing industry play a larger role in shaping Europe’s green transition. Brewers Europe aims to collaborate closely with EU leaders to advance these sustainability goals.
Brewers across Europe have adopted innovative packaging and energy-saving processes to contribute to sustainable goals while maintaining competitive production. Leferman’s vision reinforces the brewing industry’s commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Future of European Brewing
As Brewers of Europe embraces new priorities, Leferman’s agenda will drive innovation and sustainability. Her leadership ensures the brewing industry will remain central to Europe’s environmental and economic policies, keeping beer at the forefront of responsible consumption and sustainable practices. Brewers Europe will continue its efforts to align the industry with the EU’s green transition and ensure long-term competitiveness.
Julia Leferman’s strategic approach will shape European brewing’s future, focusing on competitiveness, environmental leadership, and EU partnerships.
For more details contact:
Simon Spillane, Director, Communications and Public Affairs
Email: [email protected],
Twitter: @brewersofeurope