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.