AIJN General Assembly 2026: members reaffirm common priorities and re-elect Javier Lorenzo as President
2026-07-06
Members reviewed AIJN's achievements over the past year, discussed the major legislative developments affecting the fruit juice sector, and reaffirmed the importance of working together to ensure that the industry remains competitive, innovative and sustainable.
Javier Lorenzo Benavides re-elected as AIJN President
A highlight of this year's General Assembly was the election of AIJN's leadership for the next two years. Members re-elected Javier Lorenzo Benavides as AIJN President for a second term, ensuring continuity as the association continues to represent and support the European fruit juice sector during a period of significant regulatory and market change.
The Assembly also welcomed two new members to the AIJN Board: David Marquenie, representing the Belgian association, and Rémy Sharps, representing the French association. Together, they strengthen the Board with additional expertise and perspectives from across the sector.
Following his re-election, Javier Lorenzo Benavides thanked the membership for their confidence and reaffirmed his commitment to representing the interests of the European juice and nectar industry before the European institutions.
"It is both an honour and a responsibility, and I embrace this role with energy and enthusiasm as I work to represent and defend the interests of our industry."
Looking ahead, he identified three strategic priorities for AIJN: advocating for a regulatory framework that enables companies to remain competitive, continuing to communicate the nutritional value of fruit juice, and accelerating the sector's sustainability transition.
He emphasised that maintaining constructive dialogue with European policymakers will be essential to ensure legislation remains practical, science-based and supportive of innovation. At the same time, AIJN will continue working to strengthen consumer understanding of the role that fruit juice and nectars can play as part of a balanced diet, while supporting industry initiatives that improve resource efficiency and sustainability across the value chain.
A strong year for AIJN
The General Assembly reviewed another successful year of activities across policy, technical and communication work.
Members also reflected on the success of the Juice Summit 2025, which welcomed 458 participants from around the world, achieved a 92% participant satisfaction rate and generated record sponsorship income.
Preparations are now well underway for the Juice Summit 2026, which will take place on 14-15 October 2026 at The EGG in Brussels.
Navigating an evolving policy landscape
The implementation of the revised Fruit Juice Directive remains one of AIJN's highest priorities, as the association continues to work closely with the European institutions and Member States to support it.
Members also received updates on a wide range of legislative and strategic files, including the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), vitamins and minerals fortification, AIJN's Sustainability Strategy, and the continued development of the AIJN Code of Practice.
Throughout the discussions, a common message emerged: the European fruit juice sector is operating in an increasingly demanding policy environment. Strengthening competitiveness, reducing unnecessary administrative burdens and promoting regulatory simplification will therefore remain central priorities for AIJN's advocacy work.
Supporting the sector through science, quality and sustainability
The programme also featured presentations from AIJN's partners, including the Fruit Juice Science Centre and the Sustainable Juice Platform, highlighting the importance of scientific evidence in communicating the nutritional benefits of fruit juice alongside collaborative sustainability initiatives.
Javier Lorenzo Benavides also underlined the broad role AIJN plays in supporting the sector. Alongside its advocacy activities, the association continues to strengthen product quality through the AIJN Code of Practice, promote scientific research and work with sustainability initiatives to help companies respond to future challenges.
Looking ahead
As AIJN begins a new mandate under its renewed leadership, the association remains committed to supporting its members and ensuring that the European fruit juice sector continues to thrive.
As Javier Lorenzo Benavides concluded:
"The juice and nectar industry is strong and is working enthusiastically to develop high-quality products that help meet consumers' nutritional and hydration needs."
By continuing to work together, share expertise and speak with one voice, AIJN and its members are well positioned to address future challenges while reinforcing the sector's contribution to consumers, the economy and the wider food chain.