Budweiser owner appoints president of UK operations

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Paula Lindenberg has been appointed AB InBev president for North Europe, starting next year

International brewer AB InBev has appointed Paula Lindenberg as its next president of UK operations.

Lindenberg – who is currently vice-president of marketing for the brewer’s Brazilian business, AmBev and has served 17 years with the company – will assume her new role at the Budweiser manufacturer from the start of 2019.

She succeeds current UK and Northern Europe head Jason Warner, who is to assume the role of zone president of Europe at the beginning of next year.

Commenting on her appointment, Lindenberg said: “The variety of beers here (in the UK) is incredible and our own portfolio has never been stronger or more diverse.

‘Growing the beer category’

“It is also unique in that it features all three of our global brands – Stella Artois, Budweiser and Corona. I can’t wait to work alongside the team in growing the beer category even further.”

Warner said that he couldn’t think of a better person to lead AB Inbev in the UK to the “next level”.

“[Lindenberg] has contributed hugely to our Latin American business, leading its growth strategy, expanding its premium beers and reconnecting the business with its brewing heritage,” added Warner. “I have no doubt that she will bring her own brand of creative vision and energy to these shores.”

AB Inbev results

The appointments come off the back of AB Inbev’s latest half-year and second-quarter results, which saw the brewer’s sales grow 4% and 4.7% respectively – based on organic growth and normalised numbers.

Meanwhile, last week, workers at a Budweiser brewery in Lancashire voted in favour of strike action after a union claimed a colleague was sacked for raising health and safety concerns.

GMB union members at the AB InBev-owned brewery, in Samlesbury, near Preston, will commence a continuous overtime ban from 13 August as part of their fight to have their colleague reinstated.