By Andrew Starke
Coca-Cola Amatil (CCA), has appointed John Murphy, the former MD of Fosters Australia, as MD, Licensed/Alcohol for CCA Australasia – a newly created role.
He will commence at CCA on July 1, 2010 and will lead the company’s beer strategy as its new brewery comes on line in late June.
Murphy joins CCA after a long career in the alcohol and consumer goods areas, including 27 years at Fosters where he was MD of Fosters Australia until August 2006.
He was most recently CEO of Visy Australasia until August 2009.
“I am delighted to welcome John to this new position at CCA as we lift the focus on the growth of our premium alcoholic beverage business,” said CCA’s Group MD, Terry Davis.
“With the commissioning of our new Bluetongue Brewery over the next few weeks John’s enormous experience in the beer and alcohol industry will be invaluable assets to accelerate our organic growth plans for the business.”
CCA also announced the appointment of Vince Pinneri as MD of SPC Ardmona.
Pinneri will report to Davis while Murphy will report to CCA Australasia boss, Warwick White.
Many publicans and hoteliers in Australia will note Murphy’s appointment with interest as one of his main roles will be to grow the market share of brands like Peroni, Bluetongue and Miller in licensed premises.
“I am very excited to be joining the CCA team at a time of dynamic change in the alcohol industry which is seeking a market leader in innovation, brand development, retail support and distribution,” said Murphy.
“These are capabilities that CCA has invested in over many years to provide the very best customer and consumer experience.”
It has long been speculated that CCA might look to acquire or merge with Foster’s Group but it appears the latter’s ailing wine business is the main deterrent to such a deal.
CCA shares were trading at $11.25 at 10am today (Apr 28) compared to $11.32 seven days ago.