A new start for Europe, and need for new push for sustainable market solutions

Retailers and wholesalers in Europe expressed their support for the new Commission under Ursula von der Leyen.  Speaking today after the convincing European Parliament vote in favour of the new team, EuroCommerce Director-General Christian Verschueren said:

“We are pleased to be able to mark the start of a new Commission with a clear set of priorities and bold ambitions. We fully support coherent action to address climate change and sustainability under the Green Deal, but will be stressing the need for this to be pursued in ways which engage all parts of the supply chain, including consumers, in a positive way. We look forward to working with the Commission on making Europe fit for the digital age. Digitalisation is already transforming our sector, and we have to ensure that SMEs and consumers can also benefit directly. Above all, we will be stressing the need for open markets and addressing the rising tide of protectionism both in and outside the EU. We need to remember that the Single Market is the keystone of European integration and our future prosperity.”

Earlier this year EuroCommerce issued its Manifesto for the new European Parliament and Commission, and is pleased to see that many of the priorities set out so far by Mrs von der Leyen for the Commission over the next 5 years coincide with our four priorities – on building a successful data economy in Europe, securing fair competition and freedom to do business, safeguarding open markets in and outside the EU, and supporting a sector committed to people and sustainable living.

Verschueren added:

“We face an increasingly unstable and challenging global economic environment, and slowing growth in Europe. A properly-functioning single market and continued commitment in Europe to competition and freedom to trade, will remain the best approach to making Europe a globally competitive force and giving our economy a much needed boost – while ensuring a sustainable future for citizens of Europe and the world.”