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Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author or authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Foundation for the Development of the Education System. Neither the European Union nor the entity providing the grant can be held responsible for them.

About VINTA

About

VINTA is a European cooperation project addressing persistent gender gaps in brewing, distilling and winemaking.

Across the drinks sector in Europe, women remain underrepresented in technical roles, senior positions and leadership, despite growing participation in education, training and early career stages.

EU research highlights that this is part of a wider structural challenge. The European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) shows that progress on gender equality in employment and decision-making remains slow across the EU, with women still less likely to progress into senior and technical roles in male-dominated industries. This pattern is particularly visible in sectors linked to production, manufacturing and craft skills, including food and drink.

Within the drinks industry, these inequalities are reinforced by limited access to technical training, fewer progression pathways and workplace cultures that have traditionally excluded women from production and leadership roles.

VINTA responds by strengthening vocational education and training and supporting more inclusive industry practices. The project develops practical learning resources, digital training and employer tools that support women to build skills, confidence and long-term careers, while helping employers recognise talent and improve progression opportunities.

Delivered through a European partnership, with a dedicated focus on crisis-affected regions such as Ukraine, VINTA aims to create lasting change across the European drinks industry.

Why the VINTA Project matters?

The drinks industry is changing, with growing pressure to respond to skills shortages, sustainability challenges and innovation demands. To remain competitive and resilient, the sector needs to attract, develop and retain a wider range of talent. Yet many women continue to face barriers to entering technical roles, progressing in their careers or moving into leadership positions, particularly in production and decision-making roles.


Improving access to vocational training and creating clearer progression pathways, reduces these barriers. Supporting women to build technical expertise, confidence and leadership skills benefits individuals, businesses and the sector as a whole. VINTA helps turn equality into practical action, ensuring talent is recognised, skills are strengthened and the future of the European drinks industry is more inclusive and sustainable.

Who We Serve

VINTA is designed to support the people and organisations who shape careers, skills and workplaces across the drinks sector:

VINTA supports women at different stages of their careers, from those entering the sector to those seeking to progress into technical, specialist or leadership roles. The project provides access to vocational learning, leadership development and clearer career pathways.
The project work with vocational educators, trainers and education providers who deliver learning in food and drink, hospitality and related sectors. VINTA provides practical teaching resources, open educational materials and digital tools that can be used in formal and non-formal training settings.
VINTA supports breweries, distilleries, wineries, SMEs and industry bodies that want to build more inclusive and sustainable workplaces. Through practical tools and guidance, employers are supported to improve recruitment, retention and progression practices.
The project engages with managers, HR professionals, industry leaders and policy stakeholders who influence workforce development and sector practices. VINTA shares evidence, tools and good practice to support informed decision-making.
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