The Portuguese Cork Association Launches US Campaign to Promote Cork Sustainability and Quality
The Portuguese Cork Association (APCOR) has unveiled an integrated communications campaign specifically designed for the United States market, partnering with Colangelo & Partners as its agency of record. This initiative is set to bring attention to natural cork and its invaluable relationship with wine and spirits, while also promoting the preservation of cork oak forests within the Mediterranean region.
Paulo Américo Oliveira, President of the Board for APCOR, highlighted the significance of the U.S. as a powerhouse in global beverage trends and emphasized the necessity for robust education on natural cork. "Expanding education around natural cork ensures that sustainability, people, and sound business practices remain central to that conversation," he stated.
The main objective of this campaign is to bolster the environmental credentials of natural cork, establishing it as a distinctly superior choice in the competitive beverage alcohol industry. It aspires to increase sales of natural cork stoppers, enhance consumer and trade perceptions of cork as a premium quality material, and underscore its proven effectiveness across a diverse array of wine and spirits.
To achieve these goals, Colangelo & Partners plans to engage industry allies, conduct consumer research, maintain a significant presence at key hospitality conferences, and organize educational trips to Portugal for press members, educators, and Master Sommeliers. The campaign will leverage various methods, including events, influencer partnerships, digital content, and targeted advertising.
Gino Colangelo, President of Colangelo & Partners, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with APCOR, emphasizing that understanding the advantages of natural cork is crucial. Highlighting its carbon-capturing abilities and full recyclability, he noted, "Cork offers benefits no other closure can match" and is eager to share this message with wine and spirits enthusiasts across the country throughout 2026.
Cork's cultivation is marked by sustainability as it allows the trees to remain intact without damage. These cork oak forests, recognized as vital biodiversity hotspots, are estimated to absorb around 14 million tons of CO₂ annually. These lush ecosystems are crucial habitats for over 350 various plant and animal species, function as essential rest stops for millions of migrating birds, and safeguard numerous endangered species. The ecological importance of these forests means their preservation is critical to global environmental health, comparable to the Amazon and Indonesian rainforests.
For further details, APCOR's official website provides updates on research, resources, and industry news. The association, founded in 1956, represents Portugal's cork industry, advocating for sustainable practices while promoting tradition and innovation. Additionally, Colangelo & Partners specializes in premium food, wine, and spirits brands, boasting extensive experience in both retail and communications, which positions them uniquely to address consumer purchasing behavior.
In conclusion, the APCOR campaign marks a progressive step forward not only for the cork industry but also for sustainability in packaging solutions. With its emphasis on environmental awareness and product integrity, it aspires to positively influence how consumers and industry participants perceive and utilize natural cork in their packaging choices.