Keith Nelson (innocent Ireland) Appointed Chair of Irish Beverage Council
The Irish Beverage Council (IBC), the Ibec group that represents the non-alcohol beverage industry, today announced the appointment of Keith Nelson, Country Manager, innocent Ireland, as Chair of the IBC. Keith succeeds Agnese Filippi, Country Manager of Coca Cola Ireland, who has served as IBC Chair since January 2023.
As IBC Chair, Keith Nelson will be a key influence in the strategic direction of the IBC, representing an industry at the heart of Ireland’s economy. The non-alcohol beverage industry in Ireland employs over 3,500 people directly and supports an additional 3,000 jobs indirectly.
Keith Nelson has been the Country Manager of innocent Ireland since 2020. Commenting on his appointment, the new IBC Chair said "I am delighted to have the opportunity to take on the position as Chair of the IBC at what is an important time for the industry. The next two years promises to be exciting period as the beverage sector continues to play an important role in the Irish economy and lead in sustainability. I am looking forward to working with the Council to help deliver a stable platform for the industry’s future growth, as well as engaging with our key stakeholders, including the new Government, on their behalf. "
Outgoing Chair, Agnese Filippi, said “Stepping down, I am immensely proud of the sector's achievements over the past two years. These include the successful rollout of Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme, and the launch of many innovative products that meet the Irish consumer’s need for a wider and balanced choice of drinks. The beverage sector will continue to be a sustainability leader and vital to Ireland’s economy and society, employing thousands, contributing to community initiatives, and providing significant economic output. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported and worked alongside me during my tenure.”
Robert Kiernan, Director of the Irish Beverage Council, noted that “the IBC has been a leader in several important initiatives for our sector, including Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), tethered caps, the evaluation of the Sugar Sweetened Drinks Tax, and maximising relationships with our national and international partners and stakeholders. I thank Agnese for her leadership, expertise, and energy as IBC Chair, and welcome Keith to the role. Keith brings a detailed understanding of the Irish beverage sector to this position, and I look forward to working closely with Keith in delivering for our members, our customers, and the environment”.
IBC members are part of the fabric of Ireland’s economy, proudly making a significant contribution throughout the supply chain – from agriculture to manufacturing, to packing, through to transport and logistics, retail, hospitality, and tourism. The soft drinks industry in Ireland is worth over €780m a year, and generates an annual export value of over €290m.
