Views from the Top: Andrew Lawrence

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Ever wondered who’s behind the brands that you sell? Here’s the eighth of nine of Scotland’s drinks bosses, Molson Coors’ Sales & Operations Director ANDREW LAWRENCE, with his plans for 2020, including a steer on what he thinks you should be doing with your business.

You’ve been in this role since February 2018 – what do you most enjoy about it?

It is always amazing to see how our industry is changing and to spend time with operators, understanding their challenges and opportunities and what we
can do to support. It is equally a fantastic opportunity to help develop our people and their understanding of the trade.

Why the drinks industry and what do you love about it?

Our industry is such an important part of the social fabric of our country and I have been connected to the licensed and hospitality trades for many years –
developing a passion for the on-trade in particular. It truly is an incredible place to build brands. No matter what is thrown at them, operators resiliently evolve their offerings and continue to get better.

How do you plan to drive the business forward in 2020?

For me, 2020 will be another year of developing relationships across the trade with our customers and wholesale partners. It is important that we also
engage with government and legislators at both a local and national level. As a business, it’s important we harness the power of our beer and cider brands to
help operators drive more people into outlets. We’re helping customers embrace premiumisation, while also focussing on core brands. We will invest even more in Scotland into community projects through the Carling Made Local fund.

What is the best stress-buster?

Spending time with family or friends, walking the dog or heading to the gym are all ways I relax.

Which piece of advice would you pass on to licensees?

Quality always wins and making sure you are getting the support you need from your brand owners too.That might be as simple as providing advice on industry trends or how to maintain your glassware or ensuring your dispense equipment is the best it can be.

If you had a pub what would you call it and why?

Slàinte – I think it represents a warm and friendly welcome. Being similar in Scots and Irish Gaelic it represents my family (my wife is Northern Irish) and the close link to the word ‘cheers’ reminds me of my time working in Massachusetts and visiting Boston. Hopefully in my pub everyone will know your name!

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