A SHIFT towards resilience and competitiveness

Ahead of the EU elections, IFRA launched SHIFT 2024: a set of policy recommendations designed to align the upcoming EU mandate with the sector’s strengths and public policy goals. The campaign seeks partnership between policymakers and industry to sustain cultural heritage, bolster scientific leadership, and support SMEs and innovation across the fragrance value chain

The five SHIFT priorities

Stimulate innovation; preserve heritage
Policy-makers are encouraged to use regulatory tools that balance technological progress with the preservation of fragrance traditions — acknowledging both innovation and cultural roots .

Harness our success
The fragrance industry’s existing track record in safety and sustainability should be leveraged in policymaking. Existing tools — such as the IFRA Standards and Sustainability Charter — provide a model for evidence-based, industry-led solutions

Involve the value chain
SHIFT 2024 recommends that legislation be co-designed with industry expertise. Engaging the full fragrance value chain, including SMEs, ensures practical and meaningful outcomes

Follow the science
Regulatory frameworks should continue to rely on rigorous, exposure-based risk assessments and robust data, not just intrinsic hazards. This preserves scientific integrity and prevents unintended ingredient restrictions

Tune to compete
New legislation should support both environmental goals and industrial competitiveness. Enhanced clarity and proportionality in regulations help SMEs thrive and maintain Europe’s leadership in fragrance innovation.

About SHIFT2024

A bottom-up approach for resilient EU policy

SHIFT 2024 calls on the EU to implement its Better Regulation Toolbox to support innovation, cultural heritage, regional development and SMEs. Through early engagement with value chain actors, EU policy can become more grounded, effective and durable

The fragrance industry plays a key role in Europe’s cultural, economic and scientific landscape — supporting some 20 000 jobs across nearly 800 companies, half of which are SMEs.

Through SHIFT 2024, IFRA offers a clear blueprint for EU institutions to support a competitive, sustainable and scientifically grounded future — achieving climate and economic goals while respecting heritage and fostering innovation.