Anne Toms has been appointed as the new President of The Scottish Beer & Pub Association (SBPA) taking over from Andrew Lawrence of Molson Coors Beverage Company, who has held the position since March 2022, and moves on to become Chair of the BBPA’s Future Brewing Group.
Anne Toms, who is currently Vice President, and External and Government Affairs Lead at Budweiser Brewing Group, will join Chief Executive Emma McClarkin, Strategy & Policy Director Andy Tighe, and Senior Policy Manager Paul Togneri in leading the Association’s work to champion Scotland’s pubs and brewers.
New President Anne Toms said, “I’m honoured to take on the role of SBPA President and look forward to working with our members to champion Scotland’s beer and pub sector. Pubs are at the heart of communities and brewers are a key part of Scotland’s economy – I’m committed to ensuring their voices are heard and their interests represented.”
Outgoing President Andrew Lawrence said, “It has been a privilege to serve as SBPA President and work alongside such a passionate and dedicated team. I wish Anne every success in continuing to drive forward the Association’s mission and support our fantastic industry. Having worked alongside Anne for a number of years, I know her drive, dedication, and experience will serve the industry well in Scotland.”
Emma McClarkin, SBPA Chief Executive added, “We’re delighted to welcome Anne as our new President. Her experience and commitment to the sector will be invaluable as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. Anne brings a huge amount of knowledge and experience in devolved matters and as Vice President has played a key role in our engagement with Scottish Government and parliamentarians in recent years on key issues for pubs and brewers.
“We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Andrew for his leadership and contribution over the past three-and-a-half years, and look forward to continuing to work with him in his new leadership role at the BBPA.”
The beer and pub industry continues to play a vital role in Scotland’s economy, supporting almost 62,000 jobs and contributing £1.75bn annually.