Scottish Beer & Pub Association Announces New President Anne Toms – Budweiser Brewing Group Appointed

The Scottish Beer & Pub Association (SBPA) has today announced current Vice President Anne Toms, External and Government Affairs Lead at Budweiser Brewing Group, will become its new President. 

Anne takes over from Andrew Lawrence of Molson Coors Beverage Company, who has held the position since March 2022 and is moving on to become Chair of the BBPA's Future Brewing Group. Anne Toms 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. 

The appointment comes as 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. 

Commenting on her appointment, 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." 

Ends 

About the Scottish Beer & Pub Association: 

The Scottish Beer & Pub Association is the leading body representing Scotland’s brewers and pub companies. It was formed over a century ago as The Brewing Association of Scotland and today is part of the British Beer & Pub Association, originally founded as the Brewers’ Society in 1904. In Scotland, the association represents around 800 pubs and over 90% of the beer sold. 

About Anne Toms:  

Anne Toms is External and Government Affairs Lead at Budweiser Brewing Group UK&I, where she leads engagement on policy and sustainability issues. She has extensive experience in public affairs and a strong track record of advocating for the beer and pub sector. She has been SBPA Vice President since 2022.  

Attached; Photo of Anne Toms and Andrew Lawrence for free use.

For more information or to arrange an interview contact: 

Paul Togneri – ptogneri@beerandpub.com / 07502 159 101 

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