Question
How do you ensure that a trade association’s perspective reaches policymakers, the media, and the public?
SpiritsNL wanted to strengthen the position of the spirits industry and raise greater awareness of the social and economic impacts of policy.
Approach
Since 2021, Castro has been supporting SpiritsNL with an integrated lobbying and communications strategy. We translate the sector’s interests into clear messages and identify opportunities to align them with current political and social issues.
For example, regarding the increase in alcohol excise taxes, we explicitly highlighted the consequences for cross-border shopping. By combining political advocacy with research, media coverage, and public communication, we brought the issue to the forefront from various angles.
Result
SpiritsNL’s advocacy received widespread attention in the national media and in the political debate. The proposed increase in alcohol excise taxes was subsequently partially reversed.
A good example of how communication and lobbying can reinforce each other to achieve not only visibility but also concrete results.
