The Natural Source Waters Association (NSWA) has appointed ex-Scotland Food & Drink CEO James Withers as its new chair.
The trade association representing the UK’s £2.4bn bottled water sector said Withers would be responsible for steering its overall “strategic direction”.
This would involve “ensuring healthier drinks choices are at the centre of public health policy, contributing to the launch of a successful deposit return scheme, and highlighting the sector as a leader in environmental stewardship and sustainability”, it added.
Withers was the CEO of SF&D for 11 years between 2011 and 2022, a position that had involved “driving the promotion of Scotland’s produce at home and internationally”, the NSWA said.
Prior to this, he was CEO of NFU Scotland where – in a 12-year stint – he “worked at both Westminster and Holyrood to fight for the interests of Scottish farming”.
“We are pleased to welcome James to the NSWA,” said NSWA general manager Kinvara Carey. “He brings a wealth of experience in food and drink, and he will be a valuable addition to our team at a time when natural source waters is the fastest-growing category in the soft drinks sector.”
Withers added: “I look forward to working with members, government and wider stakeholders to support the continued growth of this important sector.”
NSWA members include Highland Spring Group, Nestlé Waters & Premium Beverages, Danone UK & Ireland and Shepley Spring.
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