wonderNETwork

 
 
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 A series of networking events, interviews and social content which captures insight, outlook and attitudes on the modern-day drinks industry.

 

Raising The Bar On Sustainability- ARE DRINKS BRANDS WALKING THE TALK?

 
 

 
 

IN OUR FIRST WONDERNETWORK WEBINAR OF THE YEAR, WE EXPLORE:  

The Urgency for a Sustainable Future: How Drinks Brands Can Navigate the Path to Eco-Friendly Imbibing and Enact Positive Change

Join Us!

1-2:30pm BST, Monday 20th May

On World Bee Day


In 2021, the global drinks industry – including non-alcoholic and alcoholic products – emitted 1.5 billion tons of CO2e, accounting for 3.8% of all global CO2e emissions, according to a new report from consultancy firm Kearney. Whilst the industry has made some headway, currently it lags behind its goals for net zero operations, with the sector likely to still be generating 1.2 tonnes of CO2e by 2050.

Today, consumers are more discerning and environmentally conscious than ever before. From the packaging materials to the sourcing of ingredients and the ethical practices employed throughout production, consumers are demanding transparency and accountability from the brands they support.

A shift in consumer behaviour has placed the issue of a sustainable future front and centre in the drinks industry, crying out for a need to shape a greener and more responsible world. Actively seeking out drinks brands that not only deliver on aesthetic and taste, but equally align with their values and have the credentials such as B Corp status to back it up, sustainability is becoming an increasingly non-negotiable criterion for consumer loyalty with drinks brands compelled to prioritise eco-friendly practices to remain relevant and competitive in today’s market.

But how are they really doing? From brands large and small many have made a commitment to help the planet. Some, such as Avallen Spirits and Nc’Nean, have built brands around a greener future, applying the lens of sustainability to every decision they make. Other bigger brands, such as Absolut Vodka, Glengoyne Whisky and Carlsberg, are recognising the urgency for change and working hard and fast to implement and maintain eco-friendly measures.

 
 

 
 

As the climate crisis becomes ever more pressing, we come together in our WonderNETwork webinar to explore how drinks brands can raise the bar on sustainability. Hearing from an expert panel comprised of drinks industry leaders in sustainability, brand development, and environmental advocacy, we’ll cover:

·       The current state of sustainability in the drinks industry

·       Consumer perceptions and expectations

·       Best practices for sustainable sourcing and production

·       Innovations in eco-friendly packaging and distribution

·       Crafting a sustainable serve

·       Challenges and opportunities for drinks brands in adopting sustainable practices

·       The role of sustainability in brand storytelling and consumer engagement

·       How not to get discouraged: Determining a clear direction and long-term strategy  

And much, much more! The panel will be hosted by the talented eco-warrior Stephanie Jordan, creator and professional powerhouse behind Drinking Out Loud – the luxury wine and spirits consultancy, and Co-Founder of Avallen Spirits and Ron Bachué.

 
 

 
 

OUR PANEL OF SPEAKERS INCLUDe:

Stephanie Jordan - Creator of Drinking Out Loud and Co-Founder of Avallen Spirits
Our dynamic co-host, Stephanie is a force to be reckoned with in the drinks industry. The creative brains behind Drinking Out Loud consultancy, she ignites passion and purpose in premium brands, showcasing her commitment to sustainability and innovation. Not stopping there, she's one of the visionaries behind Avallen Spirits, with an aim to be the world's most planet-positive spirit. With charisma that's unmatched, she brings an electric energy to the panel, inspiring brands to walk the talk in sustainability.

Caroline Bates - Founding Partner of Citizen Good
The powerhouse behind Citizen Good, Caroline is a sustainability crusader on a mission to transform the food and drink industry. Empowering brands of all sizes to not just meet but exceed their sustainability targets, driving meaningful change from grassroots to global. Her vision and dedication make her a driving force in the fight for a greener, more responsible world.

Gemma & Russ Wakeham - Founders of Two Drifters Rum
The visionary duo behind Two Drifters Rum, Gemma & Russ epitomise innovation and sustainability in the drinks industry. They’re not just crafting exceptional rum, but pioneering a new era of eco-conscious distilling. Russ's expertise in carbon capture and a PhD in organic chemistry, combined with Gemma's background in sales, marketing and brand narrative, complement each other perfectly, creating an all-star team dedicated to leaving a positive impact on the planet.

Laura Schacht - Head of Sustainability and External Affairs at Suntory Beverage & Food Europe
The sustainability maestro at Suntory Beverage & Food Europe, Laura is leading the charge towards a more sustainable future. Driving impactful change across Suntory's operations, she heads up the sustainable strategic approach across more than 50 direct and license markets within Europe, Africa and the Caribbean. Her commitment to integrating eco-friendly practices into core business decisions is setting a new standard for the industry, creating change amongst leading drinks brands to raise the bar on sustainability.

Iain McPherson - Sales Director for EMEA at ecoSPIRITS
A passionate advocate for the circular economy and decarbonisation, Iain brings extensive experience in distribution operations and brand management to the table. His insights into embracing eco-friendly practices and leveraging closed-loop solutions at ecoSPIRITS, empower drinks brands both large and small to drive positive impact while achieving commercial success. With his expertise, the future of sustainability in the drinks industry looks brighter than ever.

 

We can’t wait to see you there!

 

STEPHANIE JORDAN

CAROLINE BATES

GEMMA & RUSS WAKEHAM

LAURA SCHACHT

IAIN MCPHERSON

Sarah Wildman-King