Conviviality announces board appointments

Conviviality has announced two new appointments to its board following its acquisition of Bibendum PLB last week, making it the UK’s largest independent drinks wholesaler and distributor.

Conviviality announced its acquisition of Bibendum PLB last week

Jennifer Laing has been appointed to the board as a non-executive director, along with Mark Aylwin, who is joining the board as managing director of Conviviality Direct.

Laing brings extensive brand and marketing expertise to the board, having spent over 30 years in the advertising industry. She spent 16 years with Saatchi & Saatchi, most recently as chief executive officer and chairman of North America. Prior to this she was chairman of the London office. She is currently non-executive director and chairman of the remuneration committee of Premier Foods plc, where she has been for four years.

“Jennifer’s in-depth knowledge of branding, marketing and advertising, as well as her experience on the board of a global hotel group with a large franchisee base, further diversifies the Board’s skill-set,” said David Adams, chairman of Conviviality. “We look forward to her insight as we continue to grow both our franchisee network and our on-trade business, and become a more valuable partner to our suppliers in promoting their brands across the UK.”

Aylwin joined Conviviality in January 2016 as managing director of Matthew Clark, having worked in the food and drinks industry for over 35 years. Announcing his appointment today, Conviviality credited Aylwin with helping the group successfully integrate Matthew Clark into its portfolio and realise the benefits. He will continue this work with the acquisition of Bibendum PLB, which is conditional on the company’s general meeting on 19 May.

“Mark has been a great addition to the management team since he joined Conviviality in January 2016 and I look forward to continuing to benefit from his experience as the Group develops,” added Adams.