Fever-Tree co-founder to step down in June

Charles Rolls, co-founder of leading tonic and mixer producer Fever-Tree, will step down as non-executive deputy chairman in June.

Charles Rolls (left) with Tim Warrillow (right)

Rolls has informed the board of his intention to step down from the position on 4 June at the next annual general meeting.

“Co-founding and developing the Fever-Tree brand has been the focus for an immensely satisfying 17 years of business life, from the idea through to selling our first case, and on to the millions we now sell worldwide,” Rolls said. “While I am stepping down from the board, I remain a great supporter and significant shareholder in Fever-Tree and am as passionate about the business as ever.

“I am leaving the business in robust health. Fever-Tree has a fantastic team in place, led by an inspirational CEO in Tim [Warrillow] and I have no doubt there will be many exciting years ahead for the company.”

Rolls has been active in the drinks industry for many years. In 1997, he acquired an equity stake in Plymouth Gin and became managing director after growing sales 14 times. The brand was sold to Absolut Vodka in 2001.

He then co-founded Fever-Tree with Warrillow in 2003.

Fever-Tree announced its 2019 financial results last week, with sales up 10% compared to the previous year driven by strong growth in the US.

Commenting on Rolls’ departure as non-executive deputy chairman, Warrillow, co-founder and CEO, said: “It really has been a fantastic experience and an enormous amount of fun working with and building the business alongside Charles.

“He is undoubtedly a great entrepreneur, he was one of the first to successfully breathe life into the premium gin category with Plymouth Gin and then of course Fever-Tree, so gin and tonic drinkers around the world owe him a great debt of gratitude.”