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28th Annual International Beer and Cider Strategies 2026

The Just Drinks’ International Beer Strategies Conference is the ultimate go-to event for international beer leaders

28 - 30

April

2026

InterContinental Barcelona
Ticketed

Why attend?
Agenda
Speakers
Plan Your Visit
Event Gallery
Sponsors
Media Centre
Brewery Tour
Download Agenda
Contact Us

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Ramon Agenjo Bosch

Great-grandson of the founder of Damm Board Member and Secretary of the Damm Group, Managing Trustee of the Damm Foundation President of Barcelona Global

Ramon Agenjo Bosch (Barcelona, 1957) is a board member and Secretary of the Board of Directors of Damm, Chairman of Grupo Cacaolat since 2022, and a board member of several Damm group companies. The great-grandson of Damm’s founder, Joseph Damm, his professional career has been developed primarily within the brewing group for more than four decades.

He holds degrees in Economics and in Business Administration and Management from the Abat Oliba University, as well as a diploma in Business Studies from the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya. He also holds several postgraduate qualifications and the title of Commercial Expert (Perito Mercantil) from the University of Barcelona.

Agenjo is also Trustee-Director of the Damm Foundation and Chairman of the Estrella de Levante Foundation—which channel the company’s patronage and philanthropic initiatives in the cultural, sporting, and social spheres—as well as Chairman of Club de Fútbol Damm; Pickle Pro Tour, a national pickleball circuit; Barcelona Global, with which he has been associated since the organization’s inception; and the Ramon Llull ETHOS Chair. He also serves as First Vice President of the Fundació Orfeó Català – Palau de la Música Catalana. In addition, he is Treasurer of the Catalan Academy of Gastronomy and Nutrition and is a member of the boards of trustees of the country’s leading cultural, educational, and social institutions.

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Luke White

General Manager, Damm 1876 UK

Appointed Managing Director of Damm UK in October 2024, Luke White brings extensive knowledge of the UK beer industry and a proven track record in building high-performing teams. He leads the strategic, operational and commercial direction of the business, driving growth across the branded portfolio that includes Estrella Damm, Damm Lemon, Victoria Malaga and Complot, while ensuring strong customer relationships, building a sustainable co-packing business and championing the hospitality industry.

Luke began his career in hospitality at 16 before moving into tourism marketing and sales, later joining AB InBev. During a decade with its UK arm, Budweiser Brewing Group, he progressed through the business running multiple commercial functions and growth projects, demonstrating expertise in leading and coaching ambitious commercial teams.

At Damm UK, he has overseen the final development of its Bedford Eagle Brewery site, secured exclusive UK distribution for Kirin Ichiban and Northern Monk, and led the global-first launch of Estrella Damm 0.0% in the UK. Focused on sustainable growth, Luke aims to double UK output and further establish Estrella Damm as the super premium Spanish lager of choice in an increasingly competitive market.

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Chris Hannaway

Co-Founder, Infinite Session & Brisk Lager

Brothers Tom & Chris Hannaway founded Infinite Session, an alcohol-free beer brand, in London in 2017. As alcohol drinkers, they were looking for lower-strength beer options that actually tasted like beer they found in their favourite pubs and bars in East London.

Since launching, Infinite Session has sold millions of cans of their flagship IPA beer, in many countries around the world, and won several awards, including in alcoholic beer categories, with their core team of two. Infinite Session has recently launched Brisk, a low calorie & 3.3% ABV Light Lager brand.

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Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

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Beate Haimerl-Neubauer

Senior Vice President Strategy, König Ludwig International

M.A. degreefor Philology

Qualified marketing expert (CCI)

Freudenberg Group

Business Administration

Product Manager Vileda

Marketing Manager Elefanten Schuh

Since 2000 in beer industry at König Ludwig International, a Trademark Holding for Royal Bavarian Beer Brands.

Heading the new division set up for commercializing the trademarks in a licensepartnership model in international markets.

Focus on new markets, international marketing, brand steering and brand management.

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Why attend?

Stay Ahead of the Beer & Cider Industry

Now in its 28^th year, the annual International Beer & Cider Strategies conference, brings together 150+ senior leaders in beer and cider industries, to help shape the future of this industry.

Across the three days, there’s an opportunity to be taken behind the scenes of one of the most iconic breweries, Estrella Damm. Then two days packed full of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and plenty of networking opportunities.

By attending this event you’ll:

Hear Fresh Voices & New Case Studies

This year brings an exciting lineup of new speakers and case studies. Learn directly from leaders driving innovation in sustainability, production, and product development.

Network Within a Focused Community

Connect with a highly targeted audience of brand leaders and select solution providers. The concentrated environment makes networking more efficient, meaningful, and relevant to your goals.

Stay Ahead of Emerging Trends

Gain clear, actionable insights into evolving consumer expectations, category growth areas, and shifts influencing the global beer sector. With exclusive input from GlobalData analysts, you’ll leave with intelligence that drives strategy.

Explore Solutions From Leading Innovators

Meet vendors specialising in ingredients, flavourings, AI, packaging, and sustainability, and other advanced technologies. See the practical solutions shaping the future of beer.

Keep Sustainability at the Centre of Your Strategy

From climate goals and resource efficiency to circular packaging and responsible sourcing, sustainability remains a core theme throughout the programme. Discover new approaches, tools, and partnerships to help your organisation deliver on its commitments.

WHAT TO EXPECT FOR 2026?

The Just Drinks’ International Beer and Cider Strategies Conference is the ultimate go-to event for international leaders

150+ Attendees to meet each year	20+ Exhibitors to meet each year	35+ Speakers	80% Attendees at Director+ level
150+ Attendees to meet each year	20+ Exhibitors to meet each year
35+ Speakers	80% Attendees at Director+ level

Testimonials

2025 highlights

Agenda

29 Apr 2026
30 Apr 2026

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Streams

Stream one

STREAM A: BEST PRACTICE

Stream two

STREAM B: SUSTAINABILITY

Stream three

STREAM C: TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

2 PM

Innovations in Bottle Caps and Closures

Metal & plastic closures – recent developments
Sustainability & recycling

Senior representative, Pelliconi

2:15 PM

Craft Is Dead, Long Live Craft

What the craft boom of 2010–2020 actually was — and why it couldn't last
How one farm-based brewery survived by moving across categories: beer, tonic, gin, and soft drinks
Where the creative energy went — and what "craft" means in 2026
The shift from passion-driven to structure-driven: what it costs and why it's necessary
What small producers see that large ones miss — and vice versa
The opportunity hiding in the correction

Speakers

Erik Sahlin

Founder, Sahlins Brugghus

2:45 PM

Automation That Keeps Beer Moving

Electrical engineering, controls, and automation for modern brewery operations
Integration and upgrades that improve reliability and reduce downtime
Service-driven support—from troubleshooting to full system modernization

Senior representative, Montelektro

3 PM

Digital Transformation and E-Commerce

Reserved: Senior representative, Heineken

3:30 PM

Reserved for Viking Malt

Senior representative, Viking Malt

2 PM

Small Cap, Big Impact

Innovative closures designed for performance, consistency, and branding
Material and design choices that support sustainability goals
Reliable supply and quality control to keep packaging running smoothly

Senior representative, Ecocaps

2:15 PM

How Is Artificial Intelligence (AI) is Transforming the Beer Industry

AI-powered demand forecasting and waste reduction
Smart manufacturing and predictive maintenance improving efficiency
Data-driven product innovation aligned to consumer insights

2:45 PM

Comac: Filling Faster, Wasting Less

High-efficiency canning & bottling lines built for uptime and quick changeovers
Hygienic design that protects beer quality from tank to package
Scalable automation and data features to cut losses and boost OEE

Senior representative, COMAC

3 PM

Decarbonizing Breweries

Invest in renewable energy sources and technologies
Optimize production processes to reduce emissions
Collaborate with suppliers to minimize carbon footprint

3:30 PM

Packaging at Scale-Without Compromise

End-to-end packaging solutions engineered for speed, flexibility, and efficiency
Line performance tools to improve uptime, changeovers, and total cost of ownership
Focus on lightweighting and sustainable packaging innovation

Senior representative, Sidel

Speakers

Lorenzo Caselotti

Product Manager – Can & Glass Lines, Sidel S.P.A.

7:30 AM

Registration and Networking

8 AM

The Burning Platform Is Ablaze. The Structural Shifts the Industry Must Confront To Survive

3 separate fires beneath the industry's feet

- Volume decline - the industry faces significant headwinds e.g. moderation, changes in socialising, macro-economic pressure

- Threats from non traditional players e.g. Coca-Cola and PepsiCo?

- GLP - 1 - Is it the single biggest threat to beer and cider consumption in our lifetime?

Which flame is burning hottest under YOUR business right now and how must the industry adapt to thrive?

Join this expert-led, peer-to-peer deep-dive session to hear from those in the know. Take back to your business an understanding of what it takes to succeed and lessons learned from those who have been there, done that.

Delegates must pre-register interest prior to the day of the event.

HOSTED BY: William Blackett, Director of Consulting, GlobalData

Speakers

William Blackett

Director of Consulting, GlobalData

8:50 AM

Chairman’s Opening Remarks

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

9 AM

Opening Keynote: DAMM 150TH Anniversary – Past, Present and Future

Analyse current consumer trends and preferences
Develop flexible product lines to meet diverse tastes
Implement feedback loops to continuously refine offerings

Speakers

Ramon Agenjo Bosch

Great-grandson of the founder of Damm Board Member and Secretary of the Damm Group, Managing Trustee of the Damm Foundation President of Barcelona Global

9:30 AM

Smarter Choices, Not Less Drinking – Top Trends in Beer

Drinking is becoming more intentional, modular, and occasion-led
Consumers are willing to pay more—but only when value is clearly earned
Cross-cultural flavors are characterizing everyday discovery, not just occasional experimentation
Functionality is entering alcoholic beverages incrementally, led by acceptable and low-risk claims

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

10 AM

Championing the Future of Brewing

Supporting brewers with solutions that improve quality, consistency, and efficiency from grain to glass
Driving sustainability and smart operations through innovation, data, and responsible practices
Building community: connecting brewers, suppliers, and experts to share real-world wins and next-step ideas

10:30 AM

Dragons’ Den

60 second solution provider introduction.

10:50 AM

Morning Refreshments and Networking

11:20 AM

Keynote Fireside Chat

Reserved: Senior representative, Mahou San Miguel

11:30 AM

Reserved for E.On

Senior representative, E.On

12:10 PM

Panel Discussion – Health Consciousness in Brewing: Integrating Wellness Trends into Product Lines

Explore low-calorie and functional beverage options
Collaborate with health experts for product development
Communicate health benefits effectively to consumers

Speakers

Chris Hannaway

Co-Founder, Infinite Session & Brisk Lager

Mike Bagshaw

Owner and Founder, I.T.S

12:40 PM

Investing in a resilient Beer Industry: Improving Profitability By Delivering on Sustainability

Efficiency, electrification, and low-carbon heat solutions improve both emissions performance and long-term profitability
Sustainable investments lower long-term operating costs while meeting growing expectations from customers, regulators, and investors
Local energy sources and circular heat solutions reduce exposure to volatile fuel markets and improve operational resilience

Speakers

Eveliina Paljärvi

Industry Lead, Food and Beverage, Adven

1 PM

Lunch & Networking Break

2 PM

Gas Power You Can Trust

High-performance compression solutions for CO₂ and industrial gases
Designed for reliability, efficiency, and long service life in demanding operations
Support for recovery, reuse, and smarter gas management strategies

Senior representative, ABC Compressors

2:15 PM

Enhancing Consumer Experience: Innovative marketing strategies for on and off trade

Personalize marketing efforts to resonate with target audiences
Utilize digital tools to enhance customer interactions
Create immersive brand experiences through events and activations

2:45 PM

CO₂ Under Control

CO₂ recovery and reuse solutions tailored for breweries
Improve safety and monitoring with smart control and detection systems
Reduce CO₂ purchasing, stabilize supply, and lower environmental impact

Senior representative, LogiCo2

3 PM

Building Brand Loyalty: Crafting Effective Pricing and Promotional Strategies

Develop loyalty programs that reward repeat customers
Foster emotional connections through storytelling
Utilize data analytics to understand and predict consumer behavior

Speakers

Barny Butterfield

Owner, Sandford Orchards

3:30 PM

Ingredients That Differentiate: Flavor, Performance & Consistency

Delivering standout flavor and aroma with dependable lot-to-lot consistency
Helping brewers solve technical challenges: stability, shelf life, foam, haze, and mouthfeel
Trend-forward innovation: NA/low-alc solutions, natural flavors, and new ingredient formats for faster R&D and scale-up

3:45 PM

Afternoon Refreshments and Networking

4:15 PM

Pallets That Arrive Perfect

End-of-line packaging: strapping, wrapping, and load containment solutions
Reduce transport damage while optimizing material use and cost per pallet
Automation options to increase throughput and improve workplace safety

Senior representative, Signode

4:35 PM

Keynote: The Economics of Beer: Understanding Market Trends and Value Creation

Understand market dynamics and pricing strategies
Analyse cost structures and optimize operations
Explore new revenue streams and partnerships

Speakers

Pavlína Kalousová

Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Asahi Europe & International

5:05 PM

Precision Systems That Keep Your Brewery Moving

Proven components and engineering support for reliable brewery operations
Boost uptime and reduce maintenance through quality parts and service
Real-world applications: where Gerosa fits across the brewhouse and packaging lin

Senior representative, Gerosa

Premiumisation: Elevating Beer Offerings Through Strategic Branding

Develop premium product lines with unique selling points
Enhance packaging and presentation for premium appeal
Target niche markets with tailored marketing campaigns

Speakers

Beate Haimerl-Neubauer

Senior Vice President Strategy, König Ludwig International

5:40 PM

Drinks Welcome Address

Senior representative, Resilux

Chairman’s Closing Remarks

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

6 PM

Drinks Welcome Address

Speakers

Davy Rosseel

Global Key Account Manager, Resilux Group

6:10 PM

Drinks Reception Sponsored by Resilux

Streams

Stream one

STREAM A: BEST PRACTICE

Stream two

STREAM B: TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

1:20 PM

From Insight to Innovation: Tech-Enabled New Product Development in Brewing

How data and consumer insights shaped the NPD pipeline, from concept screening to pilot validation
Rapid prototyping in the brewhouse: tools, automation, and lab tech that shortened iteration cycles
Scaling with confidence: managing quality, specifications, and repeatability from pilot to full production launch

1:50 PM

Automated Quality Control

Utilize sensors and AI for real-time quality monitoring
Reduce human error through automation
Ensure consistent product quality across batches

2:05 PM

Sustainable Sourcing and Waste Management

Source ingredients from sustainable and ethical suppliers
Implement circular economy principles in waste management
Educate consumers on sustainability efforts and impact

2:35 PM

The Digital Brewery: Exploring the Concept of Digital Twins and AI In Manufacturing

Develop digital twins for virtual process simulations
Use AI for predictive maintenance and efficiency
Integrate IoT devices for seamless operations

8 AM

Registration and Networking

8:50 AM

Chairman’s Opening Remarks

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

9 AM

Opening Keynote – Exploring the Rise of Low and No Alcohol Beverages: Meeting Changing Consumer Demands

Research consumer motivations for low/no alcohol choices
Innovate with flavors and formats to attract new consumers
Educate consumers on the benefits of low/no alcohol options

9:30 AM

Recycling & Circularity Partner

Align your brand with the industry’s push for smarter waste diversion, reclaimed materials, and circular packaging
Connect with brewery decision-makers seeking recycling programs, compliance support, and sustainability metrics
Stand out as the sustainability leader helping beer move from emptied to reimagined—better, cleaner, and repeatable

10 AM

Panel Discussion: The Future of Beer Transport & Logistics

Explore sustainable packaging materials and designs
Implement smart packaging technologies for consumer engagement
Optimize packaging for logistics and shelf appeal

Panellists TBC

Senior representative, Torwesten

10:30 AM

Morning Refreshments and Networking

11 AM

Roundtable Discussions

Interactive roundtable sessions offer a unique opportunity to come together with your peers to share best practice and develop solutions to critical challenges facing the industry as a whole. Hosted by industry experts and each focused on a single issue, roundtables are an exciting, interactive way to build your personal network and learn from the experience and expertise of others.

Each roundtable session lasts for 40 minutes and delegates may attend up to 2 roundtables.

ROUNDTABLE 1: Taste, Function & Innovation: Elevating Beer and Beyond

Ingredient solutions for flavor, mouthfeel, and stability
Responding to consumer trends (NA/low-alc, better-for-you, new taste profiles)
Collaborative development: how to move from concept to scalable production

Roundtable hosted by KERRY

ROUNDTABLE 2: From Trade Spend to True Growth: Rethinking Promotion Strategy in Food & Beverage

Trade promotions represent one of the largest investments in food and beverage. Yet they remain among the least optimized, and many manufacturers still struggle to connect trade spend to profitable growth. Siloed data and limited visibility often lead to overspending on underperforming promotions while missing high-impact opportunities.

This discussion will explore how leading F&B organizations are transforming trade promotion management from a reactive process into a strategic growth lever. We’ll examine how real-time visibility, cross-functional alignment and predictive insights help manufacturers improve ROI and align promotional strategy with broader business goals. Attendees will gain practical insight into how modern TPM approaches help teams protect their margins in an increasingly competitive market.

Roundtable hosted by INFOR

ROUNDTABLE 3: Hygienic Transfer Done Right: Tubing Choices That Protect Quality

Selecting the right hose/tubing for each process step (temperature, pressure, CIP, compatibility)
Reducing contamination risk and product loss through proper spec, handling, and changeout
Best practices: installation, cleaning, inspection, and traceability

Roundtable hosted by TUBING FOOD

12:20 PM

Lunch and Networking

1:20 PM

Reading the Market: Turning Consumer Trends into Winning Beer Innovations

Trend detection: combining shopper, on-premise, social, and loyalty data to spot demand early
What’s growing now: NA/low-alc, premiumization, fresh flavor mashups, and moderation occasions
From insight to shelf: translating findings into positioning, pack formats, and launch plans that convert

1:50 PM

Next-Gen Maturation: Precision Ageing for Consistent, Premium Results

Faster, more controllable maturation and finishing while protecting flavor integrity
Consistency at scale: dialing in oak/wood influence and reducing batch-to-batch variation
Innovation opportunities: limited editions, barrel-style profiles, and new product development without traditional barrel constraints

2:05 PM

Efficient Resource Management

Implement energy-saving technologies and practices
Optimize water usage through innovative processe
Develop waste reduction and recycling programs

2:35 PM

Smarter Packaging Lines: Inspection, Traceability & Compliance

Automated inspection to reduce defects, rework, and customer complaints
End-to-end traceability: coding/marking, data capture, and recall readiness
Line performance improvements: integrating QA checks without slowing throughput

2:50 PM

Afternoon Refreshments and Networking

3:20 PM

Advancements in Bottles and Can Packaging

Packaging solutions: bottles, cans, ends, labels, and logistics partners
Showcase innovations that improve shelf impact, line efficiency, and product integrity from fill to fridge
Earn high-visibility brand placement as the go-to packaging resource across conference touchpoints

3:35 PM

Panel Discussion: Brewing Tomorrow Together: A Shared Roadmap for the Industry

What’s next: the biggest shifts shaping beer (consumer expectations, regulation, input costs, and channel change)
Common goals brewers can align on—quality, sustainability, responsible drinking, and profitability
Collaboration in action: joint standards, shared data/learning, and partnerships that accelerate progress for everyone

Panellists TBC

4:05 PM

Chairman’s Closing Remarks

Speakers

Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

4:10 PM

End of Conference

Speakers

Select a speaker to learn more

Back

Ramon Agenjo Bosch

Great-grandson of the founder of Damm Board Member and Secretary of the Damm Group, Managing Trustee of the Damm Foundation President of Barcelona Global

Session Details:

Opening Keynote: DAMM 150TH Anniversary – Past, Present and Future

2026-04-29, 9:00 AM

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Luke White

General Manager, Damm 1876 UK

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Pavlína Kalousová

Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Asahi Europe & International

Session Details:

Keynote: The Economics of Beer: Understanding Market Trends and Value Creation

2026-04-29, 4:35 PM

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Beate Haimerl-Neubauer

Senior Vice President Strategy, König Ludwig International

M.A. degreefor Philology

Qualified marketing expert (CCI)

Freudenberg Group

Business Administration

Product Manager Vileda

Marketing Manager Elefanten Schuh

Since 2000 in beer industry at König Ludwig International, a Trademark Holding for Royal Bavarian Beer Brands.

Heading the new division set up for commercializing the trademarks in a licensepartnership model in international markets.

Focus on new markets, international marketing, brand steering and brand management.

Session Details:

Premiumisation: Elevating Beer Offerings Through Strategic Branding

2026-04-29, 5:20 PM

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Chris Hannaway

Co-Founder, Infinite Session & Brisk Lager

Session Details:

Panel Discussion – Health Consciousness in Brewing: Integrating Wellness Trends into Product Lines

2026-04-29, 12:10 PM

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Max Schütz

Director of Business Development & Marketing, König Ludwig International

Max Schütz works at König Ludwig International GmbH & Co. KG, where he focuses on international business development, brand strategy, and global partnerships in the hospitality and beverage industry. His work centers on expanding heritage brands into international markets while maintaining authenticity and long-term brand value.

Operating within a company rooted in Bavarian tradition but active worldwide, Max works at the intersection of international market expansion, strategic partnerships, and premium brand positioning. He is particularly interested in how historic brands can scale globally while staying culturally relevant and commercially successful.

As a speaker, Max shares insights on global brand building, international growth strategies, and the role of strong partnerships in scaling premium brands across diverse markets. His perspective is shaped by hands-on experience in international brand management and cross-border business development.

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William Blackett

Director of Consulting, GlobalData

Will Blackett brings over 25 years of Drinks, Retail and Foodservice experience to GlobalData. Prior to joining GlobalData, Will worked clientside at Sainsbury's, McDonald's and Heineken, working in various innovation, brand and commercial roles. Will also has extensive consultancy experience, leading a global vertical at Dunnhumby and heading the Consumer division of Savanta, a full-service insight agency, where he partnered with some of the world's largest drinks companies.

Session Details:

The Burning Platform Is Ablaze. The Structural Shifts the Industry Must Confront To Survive

2026-04-29, 8:00 AM

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Kevin Baker

Head of Global Beer & Cider Research – GlobalData

Session Details:

Chairman’s Opening Remarks

2026-04-29, 8:50 AM

Session Details:

Smarter Choices, Not Less Drinking – Top Trends in Beer

2026-04-29, 9:30 AM

Session Details:

Chairman’s Opening Remarks

2026-04-30, 8:50 AM

Session Details:

Chairman’s Closing Remarks

2026-04-30, 4:05 PM

Session Details:

Chairman’s Closing Remarks

2026-04-29, 5:50 PM

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Zelia Clare

Senior Director Global Digital Operations - Mark Anthony Brands

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Barny Butterfield

Owner, Sandford Orchards

Barny started making cider in 2002 and it wasn’t long before he outgrew the shed resulting in Sandford Orchards moving into The Cider Works in Crediton,one of the oldest working cider mills in the country. A true believer in the history of cider making, Sandford Orchards believes Sander has a huge potential to grow as a delight for the modern cider drinker of today. A firm advocate of traditional cider making methods but experimental with innovation especially in new fermentations.

Session Details:

Building Brand Loyalty: Crafting Effective Pricing and Promotional Strategies

2026-04-29, 3:00 PM

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Erik Sahlin

Founder, Sahlins Brugghus

Erik Sahlin is the founder and owner of Sahlins Brygghus AB, a craft beverage company built on a family farm in Borlänge, Sweden. Over the past decade he has grown it from a single beer brand into a multi-category operation spanning tonic water, gin, RTDs, beer, and soft drinks — roughly 1,000 hectolitres annually across six brands, with one permanent member of staff and no outside investors.

Before brewing, Erik spent years working across four continents as a photographer for Hilton International and TUI Nordic, trained in hotel management at Crowne Plaza in China, and holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications. He speaks four languages and gets by in several more.

He has spoken on craft beer and beverage strategy at conferences including the International Beer Strategies Conference (Barcelona, London, Rome), the VLB International Craft Brewing Conference (Berlin), and the European MicroBrew Symposium (Nuremberg).

Session Details:

Craft Is Dead, Long Live Craft

2026-04-29, 2:15 PM

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John Gyngell

Founder, North Brewing

As the co-founder of both North Brewing Co. and North Bar, John has played a pivotal role in redefining the craft beer landscape in the United Kingdom.

From the humble beginnings of North Bar in Leeds - the UK’s original craft beer bar to becoming a driving force in the craft beer revolution with North Brewing.

North now operate 10 bars around the UK, and a first franchise bar in Treviso, Italy. This level of commercial and critical progress is both relentless and organic. Bringing their Beer and Bao experience to the rest of the UK is their next mission.

His journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, dedication, and a knack for creating spaces where people can gather to savour unique brews and engage in meaningful conversations.

North Brewing currently brews over 5 million pints a year. The brewery supplies all of the major UK Supermarkets, exports to over 27 countries around the world and supplies the likes of Wagamama, Rudy's, Bill’s, Gusto and Dishoom nationally.

Their new home, Springwell, is a 21,000 square foot former Victorian Tannery which North converted into a modern brewery and 700 capacity taproom, carefully restoring the building, being mindful of its heritage and creating an incredible workspace and bar.

Constantly evolving and energised by an incredible team, John continues to be an important voice in both Hospitality and the Brewing community in the UK and further afield.

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Eveliina Paljärvi

Industry Lead, Food and Beverage, Adven

Eveliina Paljärvi is Industry Lead for Food and Beverage at Adven, a leading energy partner and investor in sustainable energy and utilities infrastructure. In her role, she works with companies across the food and beverage sector to develop and implement low-carbon and resource-efficient energy solutions.

Eveliina focuses on building long-term partnerships where Adven invests in and operates energy and utilities infrastructure, enabling producers to improve energy and water efficiency and reduce emissions without large upfront investments. She holds a Master’s degree in Economics and Business Administration and is passionate about advancing practical solutions that support the industry’s sustainability and competitiveness.

Session Details:

Investing in a resilient Beer Industry: Improving Profitability By Delivering on Sustainability

2026-04-29, 12:40 PM

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Davy Rosseel

Global Key Account Manager, Resilux Group

Davy Rosseel is Global Key Account Manager at Resilux Group and experienced in business development PET preforms and bottles. With his strong focus in Dairy and Plant Based Drinks Resilux can offer true sustainable packaging solutions for valuable and innovative food and drinks opportunities.

Session Details:

Drinks Welcome Address

2026-04-29, 6:00 PM

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Lorenzo Caselotti

Product Manager – Can & Glass Lines, Sidel S.P.A.

Lorenzo Caselotti is a Product Manager – Can & Glass Lines at Sidel S.P.A., based in Parma (Italy), within the Can & Glass Solutions Portfolio Management organisation.

Lorenzo is graduated as an Engineer from the University Politecnico Di Milano, one of Europe’s leading technical universities. With more than 15 years of experience in Sidel Group in different roles related to Project Management (Global Key Account Lead Project Manager, Senior Project Manager) and Business Development for the beer market.

Lorenzo’s background in managing complex packaging-line projects and supporting global beer key accounts helps breweries reduce time-to-market. His experience translating technical requirements into clear commercial offers and smooth project execution supports brewers’ needs understanding to evaluate the most relevant solutions. Having worked closely with international brewers, he understands the operational constraints of high-speed production, quality requirements, sustainable and flexible production, and the need for reliable line ramp-up and after-sales support.

To know more about Lorenzo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorenzocaselotti/

Session Details:

Packaging at Scale-Without Compromise

2026-04-29, 3:30 PM

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Mike Bagshaw

Owner and Founder, I.T.S

Owner and Founder of UK-based natural flavour manufacturer, I.T.S. Mike is an experienced flavour innovator who has spent over 25 years in the food and beverage industry. With a background in science and food ingredients, he then founded I.T.S. in 2009. Building it up from his kitchen table to the international flavour business it is today. Mike remains proudly independent and always passionate about creating market-leading natural flavours for the food and beverage market. Mike spends his days exploring the food and drink industry, playing rugby and brewing beer.

Session Details:

Panel Discussion – Health Consciousness in Brewing: Integrating Wellness Trends into Product Lines

2026-04-29, 12:10 PM

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