Latest news with #VinitalyInternationalAward
Malaysian Reserve
05-05-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Veronafiere and the Italian Trade Agency Convene U.S. Wine Industry Leaders to Tackle Tariffs and Market Challenges in Washington, D.C. Roundtable
WASHINGTON, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Veronafiere, organizer of Vinitaly, and the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) hosted a high-level roundtable entitled, 'Inside Italian Wine's Next Move in America' at Cafe Milano in Washington, D.C. on Thursday of last week. In anticipation of (taking place in Chicago on October 5–6), the event gathered leading figures from the U.S. wine trade, Italian institutions, policymakers, and the media to discuss strategies for navigating the evolving American wine market. At a time of renewed tariff uncertainty and shifting consumer trends, the roundtable created space for candid dialogue on how to protect and grow Italian wine's presence in the U.S.—Italy's most valuable export market, accounting for 24% of total Italian wine exports. Italian wine remains the #1 imported wine category in the U.S., holding a 33% market share. Key Speakers and Guests Notable attendees included Federico Bricolo, President of Veronafiere; Matteo Zoppas, President of the Italian Trade Agency (ITA); Adolfo Rebughini, General Manager of Veronafiere; Robert Tobiassen, President of the National Association of Beverage Importers (NABI); Robert Allegrini, President of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF); and representatives from Akin Gump, lobbying on behalf of the U.S. Wine Trade Alliance. Also present were key industry leaders such as Tara Empson, CEO of Empson USA and recipient of the 2025 Vinitaly International Award; Dina Opici, Chairwoman of the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) and President of Opici Family Distributing; Francis Creighton, CEO and President of WSWA; Federico Veronesi, CEO of Oniwines Group; Charles Lazzara, CEO of Volio Imports; and Amanda Page, Director of Tolaini Distribution. Guest of honor was Mariangela Zappia, Italy's Ambassador to the United States. Discussion Highlights Federico Bricolo addressed the urgency of the moment: 'Even modest tariffs can have a significant ripple effect in a highly competitive market like the United States. In today's climate of geopolitical tension, direct engagement is more critical than ever. Strengthening ties with U.S. trade partners now can help mitigate future risks. A well-established relationship between producer and importer is more likely to withstand cost pressures or policy shifts, enabling both sides to adapt rather than retreat.''Events like are essential platforms to reinforce relationships, build visibility, and strengthen resilience across the trade.' Matteo Zoppas echoed the concern over tariffs: 'Until there is greater clarity on implementation, it's difficult to fully gauge the impact on exports. What we do know is that tariffs are damaging in any scenario—just their announcement can destabilize the market.'He continued:'According to the U.S. Wine Trade Alliance, for every dollar earned by an Italian wine producer, U.S. businesses earn $4.52. This is a result of the three-tier distribution system, where American importers, distributors, retailers, and restaurants apply margins at every stage.' Adolfo Rebughini emphasized the consumer impact: 'Tariffs will inevitably raise prices. A mid-range bottle of Prosecco that once retailed at $10.99 may soon cost $12.99. That's why initiatives like are so important. These events not only promote Italian wine but also help strengthen the producer–importer relationship, giving both sides the tools to navigate challenges and ensure long-term success in the U.S. market.' The discussion underscored the need for ongoing collaboration, renewed investment by Italian producers in the U.S., and market diversification into regions like Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Asia. Next Steps: White Paper to Follow To ensure the insights and recommendations shared during the roundtable have lasting impact, a white paper will be drafted based on the discussion and made available to the broader wine industry in the coming weeks. The document will be published on the official Vinitaly and websites and shared with stakeholders across the international wine trade. About returning for its second edition in October 2025, is the largest and most comprehensive Italian wine trade show outside of Italy—and the only event officially licensed to carry the Vinitaly name beyond in 2024, the inaugural edition featured 230 producers and more than 1,650 wines, attracting over 1,500 qualified trade and media professionals. The 2025 edition is expected to surpass 300 producers and expand its reach, further solidifying its position as a premier destination for the North American wine trade. Media Contact Morgana Germanetto, Colangelo & Partners, +1 646 624-2885, mgermanetto@
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Neil Empson Posthumously Receives the 'Vinitaly International Award' at the 57th Edition of Vinitaly
A pioneering Italian wine importer to the US, Empson was honored for his lifetime contributions to the wine industry ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Empson USA proudly announced that company founder Neil Empson has been posthumously honored with the prestigious 'Vinitaly International Award' in the "Abroad" category at the 57th edition of Vinitaly, one of the world's leading international wine fairs, held annually in Verona, Italy. The award was presented during the fair's opening ceremony by Veronafiere S.p.A. President Federico Bricolo. Established in 1996, the accolade honors individuals and companies that have shaped the global wine industry through innovation, vision, and long-standing commitment. This year's award was given to Empson for his pioneering contributions to the international success of fine Italian wine. Neil Empson, chairman and co-founder of Empson & Co. (1972), Empson USA (1991), and Empson Canada (2000), was a pioneer in exporting fine Italian wines to the USA, Canada, and beyond. This recognition reflects Neil's significant role in shaping the international reputation of Italian wine as well as building lasting relationships between producers and markets around the world. "This is such a wonderful honor for me, my family and for Empson as a company," said Tara Empson, CEO of Empson USA. "My father dedicated his life to showcasing Italian excellence, and I could not be happier that Veronafiere bestowed this award on him. I was profoundly gripped by emotion upon receiving this recognition, as I miss him dearly and wish he could have been there to accept it." Neil Empson, who passed away in September of last year at the age of 85, co-founded Empson & Co. in Milan in 1972 with his wife, Maria Gemma. Together, they pioneered the export of premium Italian wines at a time when few believed in the category's international potential. Empson was instrumental in introducing Chardonnay from Italy to foreign markets, and championing some of Italy's most iconic brands and underrepresented regions internationally, particularly in the U.S. and Canada. Known for his integrity, charisma, enthusiasm, and captivating storytelling capabilities, Neil Empson left an indelible mark on the wine industry. His legacy includes not only the discovery and promotion of top Italian producers but also a deep respect for quality, authenticity, and the people behind the wines. Today, the company is led by his daughter, Tara Empson, who continues the mission he began over five decades ago. About Empson USA | Family-owned since its foundation in 1991, Empson USA is an enterprising fine wine and spirits importer with a dynamic portfolio of distinctive estates from Italy, Chile, New Zealand, and the USA. Empson's mission is to seek out and champion carefully selected top-tier producers worldwide, and to share the "Art of Fine Wine" with customers and partners in the US market. Contact: Cristina Coariccoari@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Empson USA Sign in to access your portfolio
