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28th Annual International Beer and Cider Strategies 2026

The Just Drinks’ International Beer Strategies Conference is the ultimate go-to event for international beer leaders

28 - 30

April

2026

InterContinental Barcelona
Ticketed

Why attend?
Agenda
Speakers
Plan Your Visit
Event Gallery
Sponsors
Media Centre
Brewery Tour
Download Agenda
Contact Us

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Ramon Agenjo Bosch

Great-grandson of the founder of Damm Board Member and Secretary of the Damm Group, Managing Trustee of the Damm Foundation President of Barcelona Global

Ramon Agenjo Bosch (Barcelona, 1957) is a board member and Secretary of the Board of Directors of Damm, Chairman of Grupo Cacaolat since 2022, and a board member of several Damm group companies. The great-grandson of Damm’s founder, Joseph Damm, his professional career has been developed primarily within the brewing group for more than four decades.

He holds degrees in Economics and in Business Administration and Management from the Abat Oliba University, as well as a diploma in Business Studies from the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya. He also holds several postgraduate qualifications and the title of Commercial Expert (Perito Mercantil) from the University of Barcelona.

Agenjo is also Trustee-Director of the Damm Foundation and Chairman of the Estrella de Levante Foundation—which channel the company’s patronage and philanthropic initiatives in the cultural, sporting, and social spheres—as well as Chairman of Club de Fútbol Damm; Pickle Pro Tour, a national pickleball circuit; Barcelona Global, with which he has been associated since the organization’s inception; and the Ramon Llull ETHOS Chair. He also serves as First Vice President of the Fundació Orfeó Català – Palau de la Música Catalana. In addition, he is Treasurer of the Catalan Academy of Gastronomy and Nutrition and is a member of the boards of trustees of the country’s leading cultural, educational, and social institutions.

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Luke White

General Manager, Damm 1876 UK

Appointed Managing Director of Damm UK in October 2024, Luke White brings extensive knowledge of the UK beer industry and a proven track record in building high-performing teams. He leads the strategic, operational and commercial direction of the business, driving growth across the branded portfolio that includes Estrella Damm, Damm Lemon, Victoria Malaga and Complot, while ensuring strong customer relationships, building a sustainable co-packing business and championing the hospitality industry.

Luke began his career in hospitality at 16 before moving into tourism marketing and sales, later joining AB InBev. During a decade with its UK arm, Budweiser Brewing Group, he progressed through the business running multiple commercial functions and growth projects, demonstrating expertise in leading and coaching ambitious commercial teams.

At Damm UK, he has overseen the final development of its Bedford Eagle Brewery site, secured exclusive UK distribution for Kirin Ichiban and Northern Monk, and led the global-first launch of Estrella Damm 0.0% in the UK. Focused on sustainable growth, Luke aims to double UK output and further establish Estrella Damm as the super premium Spanish lager of choice in an increasingly competitive market.

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Chris Hannaway

Co-Founder, Infinite Session & Brisk Lager

Brothers Tom & Chris Hannaway founded Infinite Session, an alcohol-free beer brand, in London in 2017. As alcohol drinkers, they were looking for lower-strength beer options that actually tasted like beer they found in their favourite pubs and bars in East London.

Since launching, Infinite Session has sold millions of cans of their flagship IPA beer, in many countries around the world, and won several awards, including in alcoholic beer categories, with their core team of two. Infinite Session has recently launched Brisk, a low calorie & 3.3% ABV Light Lager brand.

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Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

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Why attend?

Stay Ahead of the Beer & Cider Industry

Now in its 28^th year, the annual International Beer & Cider Strategies conference, brings together 150+ senior leaders in beer and cider industries, to help shape the future of this industry.

Across the three days, there’s an opportunity to be taken behind the scenes of one of the most iconic breweries, Estrella Damm. Then two days packed full of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and plenty of networking opportunities.

By attending this event you’ll:

Hear Fresh Voices & New Case Studies

This year brings an exciting lineup of new speakers and case studies. Learn directly from leaders driving innovation in sustainability, production, and product development.

Network Within a Focused Community

Connect with a highly targeted audience of brand leaders and select solution providers. The concentrated environment makes networking more efficient, meaningful, and relevant to your goals.

Stay Ahead of Emerging Trends

Gain clear, actionable insights into evolving consumer expectations, category growth areas, and shifts influencing the global beer sector. With exclusive input from GlobalData analysts, you’ll leave with intelligence that drives strategy.

Explore Solutions From Leading Innovators

Meet vendors specialising in ingredients, flavourings, AI, packaging, and sustainability, and other advanced technologies. See the practical solutions shaping the future of beer.

Keep Sustainability at the Centre of Your Strategy

From climate goals and resource efficiency to circular packaging and responsible sourcing, sustainability remains a core theme throughout the programme. Discover new approaches, tools, and partnerships to help your organisation deliver on its commitments.

WHAT TO EXPECT FOR 2026?

The Just Drinks’ International Beer and Cider Strategies Conference is the ultimate go-to event for international leaders

150+ Attendees to meet each year	20+ Exhibitors to meet each year	35+ Speakers	80% Attendees at Director+ level
150+ Attendees to meet each year	20+ Exhibitors to meet each year
35+ Speakers	80% Attendees at Director+ level

Testimonials

2025 highlights

Agenda

29 Apr 2026
30 Apr 2026

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Streams

Stream one

STREAM A: BEST PRACTICE

Stream two

STREAM B: SUSTAINABILITY

Stream three

STREAM C: TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

1:40 PM

Emerging Tech in Brewing: Utilizing Digitalization and AI For Future-Ready Operations

Explore AI applications for product innovation
Utilize blockchain for supply chain transparency
Embrace digital marketing strategies for consumer engagement

1:55 PM

Exploring Beer Trends with AI

Using GlobalData's Ai powered trends and innovation platform Ai Palette we will look at what is going on in the market and with consumers right now. We'll share some interesting data on what language is trending. Finally, we will conduct a live, interactive product development session to put our collective ideas to the test.

2:25 PM

Automation That Keeps Beer Moving

Electrical engineering, controls, and automation for modern brewery operations
Integration and upgrades that improve reliability and reduce downtime
Service-driven support—from troubleshooting to full system modernization

Senior representative, Montelektro

2:40 PM

Innovations in Beverage Analysis: Real-Time, Automated Quality Control Solutions

Adopt real-time analytics for quality assurance
Implement automated systems for faster decision-making
Enhance product development with advanced data insights

3:10 PM

Boosting Efficiency and Reducing Product Loss

Strategies for maximizing productivity
Exploring machine learning based process control
Innovating production operations and processes

1:40 PM

Small Cap, Big Impact

Innovative closures designed for performance, consistency, and branding
Material and design choices that support sustainability goals
Reliable supply and quality control to keep packaging running smoothly

Senior representative, Ecocaps

1:55 PM

Integrating ESG into Brewing Strategy: Creating a sustainable beer brand

Set clear sustainability goals and track progress
Engage stakeholders in sustainability initiatives
Communicate ESG efforts transparently to consumers

2:25 PM

Comac: Filling Faster, Wasting Less

High-efficiency canning & bottling lines built for uptime and quick changeovers
Hygienic design that protects beer quality from tank to package
Scalable automation and data features to cut losses and boost OEE

Senior representative, COMAC

2:40 PM

Decarbonizing Breweries

Invest in renewable energy sources and technologies
Optimize production processes to reduce emissions
Collaborate with suppliers to minimize carbon footprint

3:10 PM

Packaging at Scale-Without Compromise

End-to-end packaging solutions engineered for speed, flexibility, and efficiency
Line performance tools to improve uptime, changeovers, and total cost of ownership
Focus on lightweighting and sustainable packaging innovation

Senior representative, Sidel

7:30 AM

Registration and Networking

8 AM

Breakfast Deep-Dive: Greenwashing or Planet-Proofing

Authenticity, transparency, and verifiability of environmental claims

How are brands using marketing to appear sustainable?

Do consumers “talk the talk” but not “walk the walk”?

Genuine planet-proofing: Ensuring verifiable actions that reduce environmental harm across the product's entire life cycle

What is the commitment of businesses to ESG?

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

8:50 AM

Chairman’s Opening Remarks

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

9 AM

Opening Industry Overview: Inspirations from Around the Globe

Innovations to inspire
How consumer motivations and drivers are changing
How your competitive landscape looks to 2030

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

9:15 AM

Opening Keynote: Adapting to Evolving Consumer Preferences

Analyse current consumer trends and preferences
Develop flexible product lines to meet diverse tastes
Implement feedback loops to continuously refine offerings

9:45 AM

Championing the Future of Brewing

Supporting brewers with solutions that improve quality, consistency, and efficiency from grain to glass
Driving sustainability and smart operations through innovation, data, and responsible practices
Building community: connecting brewers, suppliers, and experts to share real-world wins and next-step ideas

10:15 AM

Dragons’ Den

60 second solution provider introduction.

10:30 AM

Morning Refreshments and Networking

11 AM

Crafting A Global Brand: Balancing Regional Nuances with Global Trends

Identify key markets and tailor branding strategies.
Balance global consistency with local customization.
Leverage digital platforms for global reach

11:30 AM

Powering Breweries with Confidence

Energy supply and optimization strategies tailored to brewing demands
Managing price volatility and improving energy resilience
Tools and insights to track usage, targets, and savings over time

Senior representative, E.On

11:50 AM

Panel Discussion – Health Consciousness in Brewing: Integrating Wellness Trends into Product Lines

Explore low-calorie and functional beverage options
Collaborate with health experts for product development
Communicate health benefits effectively to consumers

Panellists TBC

Senior representative, I.T.S

12:20 PM

Smarter Utilities for Sustainable Brewing

Energy and utility solutions that lower cost per hectoliter
Practical sustainability: efficiency upgrades with measurable impact
Case examples: implementing changes without disrupting production

Senior representative, Adven

12:40 PM

Lunch & Networking Break

1:40 PM

Gas Power You Can Trust

High-performance compression solutions for CO₂ and industrial gases
Designed for reliability, efficiency, and long service life in demanding operations
Support for recovery, reuse, and smarter gas management strategies

Senior representative, ABC Compressors

1:55 PM

Enhancing Consumer Experience: Innovative marketing strategies for on and off trade

Personalize marketing efforts to resonate with target audiences
Utilize digital tools to enhance customer interactions
Create immersive brand experiences through events and activations

2:25 PM

CO₂ Under Control

CO₂ recovery and reuse solutions tailored for breweries
Improve safety and monitoring with smart control and detection systems
Reduce CO₂ purchasing, stabilize supply, and lower environmental impact

Senior representative, LogiCo2

2:40 PM

Building Brand Loyalty: Crafting Effective Pricing and Promotional Strategies

Develop loyalty programs that reward repeat customers
Foster emotional connections through storytelling
Utilize data analytics to understand and predict consumer behavior

3:10 PM

Ingredients That Differentiate: Flavor, Performance & Consistency

Delivering standout flavor and aroma with dependable lot-to-lot consistency
Helping brewers solve technical challenges: stability, shelf life, foam, haze, and mouthfeel
Trend-forward innovation: NA/low-alc solutions, natural flavors, and new ingredient formats for faster R&D and scale-up

3:25 PM

Pallets That Arrive Perfect

End-of-line packaging: strapping, wrapping, and load containment solutions
Reduce transport damage while optimizing material use and cost per pallet
Automation options to increase throughput and improve workplace safety

Senior representative, Signode

3:40 PM

Afternoon Refreshments and Networking

4:10 PM

The Economics of Beer: Understanding Market Trends and Value Creation

Understand market dynamics and pricing strategies
Analyse cost structures and optimize operations
Explore new revenue streams and partnerships

4:40 PM

Precision Systems That Keep Your Brewery Moving

Proven components and engineering support for reliable brewery operations
Boost uptime and reduce maintenance through quality parts and service
Real-world applications: where Gerosa fits across the brewhouse and packaging lin

Senior representative, Gerosa

5 PM

Premiumisation: Elevating Beer Offerings Through Strategic Branding

Develop premium product lines with unique selling points
Enhance packaging and presentation for premium appeal
Target niche markets with tailored marketing campaigns

Chairman’s Closing Remarks

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

5:40 PM

Drinks Welcome Address

Senior representative, Resilux

5:50 PM

Drinks Reception

Sponsored by Resilux

Streams

Stream one

STREAM A: BEST PRACTICE

Stream two

STREAM B: TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

1:20 PM

From Insight to Innovation: Tech-Enabled New Product Development in Brewing

How data and consumer insights shaped the NPD pipeline, from concept screening to pilot validation
Rapid prototyping in the brewhouse: tools, automation, and lab tech that shortened iteration cycles
Scaling with confidence: managing quality, specifications, and repeatability from pilot to full production launch

1:50 PM

Automated Quality Control

Utilize sensors and AI for real-time quality monitoring
Reduce human error through automation
Ensure consistent product quality across batches

2:05 PM

Sustainable Sourcing and Waste Management

Source ingredients from sustainable and ethical suppliers
Implement circular economy principles in waste management
Educate consumers on sustainability efforts and impact

2:35 PM

The Digital Brewery: Exploring the Concept of Digital Twins and AI In Manufacturing

Develop digital twins for virtual process simulations
Use AI for predictive maintenance and efficiency
Integrate IoT devices for seamless operations

8 AM

Registration and Networking

8:50 AM

Chairman’s Opening Remarks

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

9 AM

Opening Keynote – Exploring the Rise of Low and No Alcohol Beverages: Meeting Changing Consumer Demands

Research consumer motivations for low/no alcohol choices
Innovate with flavors and formats to attract new consumers
Educate consumers on the benefits of low/no alcohol options

9:30 AM

Recycling & Circularity Partner

Align your brand with the industry’s push for smarter waste diversion, reclaimed materials, and circular packaging
Connect with brewery decision-makers seeking recycling programs, compliance support, and sustainability metrics
Stand out as the sustainability leader helping beer move from emptied to reimagined—better, cleaner, and repeatable

10 AM

Panel Discussion – The Future of Beer Packaging: Innovations in Eco-Friendly and Smart Packaging

Explore sustainable packaging materials and designs
Implement smart packaging technologies for consumer engagement
Optimize packaging for logistics and shelf appeal

Panellists TBC

Senior representative, Torwesten

10:30 AM

Morning Refreshments and Networking

11 AM

Roundtable Discussions

Interactive roundtable sessions offer a unique opportunity to come together with your peers to share best practice and develop solutions to critical challenges facing the industry as a whole. Hosted by industry experts and each focused on a single issue, roundtables are an exciting, interactive way to build your personal network and learn from the experience and expertise of others.

Each roundtable session lasts for 40 minutes and delegates may attend up to 2 roundtables.

ROUNDTABLE 1: Taste, Function & Innovation: Elevating Beer and Beyond

Ingredient solutions for flavor, mouthfeel, and stability
Responding to consumer trends (NA/low-alc, better-for-you, new taste profiles)
Collaborative development: how to move from concept to scalable production

Roundtable hosted by KERRY

ROUNDTABLE 2: Hygienic Transfer Done Right: Tubing Choices That Protect Quality

Selecting the right hose/tubing for each process step (temperature, pressure, CIP, compatibility)
Reducing contamination risk and product loss through proper spec, handling, and changeout
Best practices: installation, cleaning, inspection, and traceability

Roundtable hosted by TUBING FOOD

ROUNDTABLE 3: Data-Driven Brewing: From Production Planning to the Warehouse

Connecting planning, production, quality, and inventory in one operational view
Improving scheduling, traceability, and compliance with real-time insights
Roadmap discussion: quick wins vs. long-term digital transformation in the brewery

Roundtable hosted by INFOR

12:20 PM

Lunch and Networking

1:20 PM

Reading the Market: Turning Consumer Trends into Winning Beer Innovations

Trend detection: combining shopper, on-premise, social, and loyalty data to spot demand early
What’s growing now: NA/low-alc, premiumization, fresh flavor mashups, and moderation occasions
From insight to shelf: translating findings into positioning, pack formats, and launch plans that convert

1:50 PM

Next-Gen Maturation: Precision Ageing for Consistent, Premium Results

Faster, more controllable maturation and finishing while protecting flavor integrity
Consistency at scale: dialing in oak/wood influence and reducing batch-to-batch variation
Innovation opportunities: limited editions, barrel-style profiles, and new product development without traditional barrel constraints

2:05 PM

Efficient Resource Management

Implement energy-saving technologies and practices
Optimize water usage through innovative processe
Develop waste reduction and recycling programs

2:35 PM

Smarter Packaging Lines: Inspection, Traceability & Compliance

Automated inspection to reduce defects, rework, and customer complaints
End-to-end traceability: coding/marking, data capture, and recall readiness
Line performance improvements: integrating QA checks without slowing throughput

2:50 PM

Afternoon Refreshments and Networking

3:20 PM

Advancements in Bottles and Can Packaging

Packaging solutions: bottles, cans, ends, labels, and logistics partners
Showcase innovations that improve shelf impact, line efficiency, and product integrity from fill to fridge
Earn high-visibility brand placement as the go-to packaging resource across conference touchpoints

3:35 PM

Panel Discussion: Brewing Tomorrow Together: A Shared Roadmap for the Industry

What’s next: the biggest shifts shaping beer (consumer expectations, regulation, input costs, and channel change)
Common goals brewers can align on—quality, sustainability, responsible drinking, and profitability
Collaboration in action: joint standards, shared data/learning, and partnerships that accelerate progress for everyone

Panellists TBC

4:05 PM

Chairman’s Closing Remarks

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

4:10 PM

End of Conference

Speakers

Select a speaker to learn more

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Ramon Agenjo Bosch

Great-grandson of the founder of Damm Board Member and Secretary of the Damm Group, Managing Trustee of the Damm Foundation President of Barcelona Global

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Luke White

General Manager, Damm 1876 UK

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Pavlína Kalousová

Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Asahi Europe & International

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Chris Hannaway

Co-Founder, Infinite Session & Brisk Lager

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William Blackett

Director of Consulting, GlobalData

Will Blackett brings over 25 years of Drinks, Retail and Foodservice experience to GlobalData. Prior to joining GlobalData, Will worked clientside at Sainsbury's, McDonald's and Heineken, working in various innovation, brand and commercial roles. Will also has extensive consultancy experience, leading a global vertical at Dunnhumby and heading the Consumer division of Savanta, a full-service insight agency, where he partnered with some of the world's largest drinks companies.

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Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

Session Details:

Chairman’s Opening Remarks

2026-04-29, 8:50 AM

Session Details:

Opening Industry Overview: Inspirations from Around the Globe

2026-04-29, 9:00 AM

Session Details:

Chairman’s Opening Remarks

2026-04-30, 8:50 AM

Session Details:

Chairman’s Closing Remarks

2026-04-30, 4:05 PM

Session Details:

Chairman’s Closing Remarks

2026-04-29, 5:30 PM

Session Details:

Breakfast Deep-Dive: Greenwashing or Planet-Proofing

2026-04-29, 8:00 AM

View In Agenda

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Davy Rosseel

Global Key Account Manager, Resilux Group

Davy Rosseel is Global Key Account Manager at Resilux Group and experienced in business development PET preforms and bottles. With his strong focus in Dairy and Plant Based Drinks Resilux can offer true sustainable packaging solutions for valuable and innovative food and drinks opportunities.

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