Spirits Europe names its next president
Patrick Piana, the managing director of Europe at Campari Group, has been appointed as trade body Spirits Europe’s next president.
Piana succeeds Ian McLernon in the role, who is group chief markets officer of Rémy Cointreau and has been at the helm of Spirits Europe for the past two years.
Presidents of Spirits Europe serve on two-year terms.
Piana said: “It is a great honour to lead Spirits Europe and represent a sector renowned worldwide for its quality, craftsmanship, innovation and export success, as well as for its role in fostering connection and conviviality across societies.
“I would also like to pay tribute to Ian McLernon for his leadership and dedication in guiding the organisation through a particularly challenging period,” he added.
Piana, who is based in Milan, joined Campari Group in 2021. He took on the managing director Europe role for the Aperol maker in 2024.
His experience in the beverage industry spans more than 30 years and includes top positions at Philip Morris, Moët Hennessy, Pernod Ricard and Rémy Cointreau. Before Campari Group, he was CEO of Fratelli Branca Distillerie.
Carrying on McLernon’s work, Piana will help to shape, protect and grow Europe’s spirits industry in both the European Union and international markets.
He said: “From farm to glass, spirits are deeply rooted in Europe’s culture, traditions and way of life. They contribute to local economies, support agricultural communities and enrich hospitality and tourism experiences across the continent, while promoting social interaction within a strong culture of responsibility.”
As McLernon did, Piana also steps into the position during an increasingly uncertain global environment, which he acknowledged: “At a time of geopolitical tensions and economic volatility, my priority will be to drive forward our sector’s ambitious agenda.”
He said his agenda as president is: “Accelerating our sustainability efforts, defending and expanding market access, advancing consumer information through digital labelling, fostering innovation and further strengthening our long-standing commitment to responsible drinking, while also ensuring proper recognition of the sector’s wider contribution to culture, communities and convivial social interaction.”
Piana will also work closely and engage with EU policymakers in supporting the spirits sector.
He added: “Beyond its economic contribution, and at its core, the spirits sector is part of the social fabric of local communities, helping to foster connection, conviviality and a sense of shared enjoyment that enriches everyday life within a clear framework of responsibility and moderation.
“Europe’s spirits sector is a remarkable success story. Together, we will continue to promote its heritage, strengthen its competitiveness and unlock opportunities for future growth.”
Spirits Europe, which is the leading voice of the European spirits sector, has an ‘Objective 2030’ roadmap for EU open trade policy. Released at Spirits Europe’s Summit 2024, the goal is to support competitiveness, resilience, and growth in the future.
The organisation appointed Mark Titterington as its director general in June last year.
Related news
Absolut: getting people talking about vodka again
