Paving the way towards a more sustainable, more responsible, and more competitive soft drinks industry for Europe
What we do
For over 60 years, UNESDA has worked hard to promote the interests of consumers and producers of non-alcoholic beverages across Europe. The association has done so by building a constructive conversation with key stakeholders, and by proactively implementing bold EU-wide sectoral initiatives, often outpacing the rhythm of legislation. The result? Our members now lead the way in integrating environmental and social commitments into their business model.
Reflecting society’s thirst for smarter consumption, UNESDA plays a pivotal role in bringing businesses, civil society, and EU decision-makers together to ensure that the production and distribution of soft drinks become ever more sustainable.
UNESDA aims at addressing those imperatives while also striving to make the industry more competitive in the international marketplace.
Who we are
Based in Brussels, at the heart of Europe, our team of experienced and talented experts works tirelessly to engage key stakeholders on the industry’s efforts towards increased sustainability and competitiveness.
To this end we proudly service the interests of our members, 35 national associations and businesses from all over Europe. From Lisbon to Tallinn, and from Stockholm to Athens, UNESDA members are involved in the production and/or distribution of all kinds of non-alcoholic beverages: still drinks, cordials, dilutables, carbonates, fruit drinks, energy drinks, iced teas and coffees, squashes and sports drinks.
Message from our President
Peter Harding
President of UNESDA Soft Drinks Europe 2023-2025
UNESDA has a solid reputation at EU level, and I couldn’t be more excited to build on our strong momentum to contribute to the transition to a more sustainable and healthier food system in Europe. The soft drinks sector plays a major role in the European economy and our entire value chain is estimated to be worth 185bn euros per annum. We are a valued employer and together with our suppliers and extended value chain we support 1.7 million jobs across Europe. As an important sector within food and drink, we believe we have a key leadership role to play to help drive strategic sustainable change for Europe, while supporting the growth ambitions of our sector. I am committed to accelerating our sector’s actions and look forward to working with all stakeholders on an enabling policy and regulatory framework.
Transparency Register
UNESDA represents the European soft drinks industry. Its members produce still drinks, carbonated drinks, energy drinks, iced teas, flavoured waters and sports drinks. The association was established in 1958 and is based in Brussels. UNESDA is a signatory to the EU Transparency Register n°25492952296-56.