De Kuyper names new chairman

Dutch drinks firm De Kuyper has appointed Dirk-Jan Stoppelenburg as chairman of its supervisory board.

Stoppelenburg takes over the position from Jan Willem Baud, who has completed two four-year terms as chairman.

Mark de Witte, CEO of De Kuyper, said Stoppelenburg brought a “wealth of experience that is especially relevant and valuable for the upcoming phase of accelerating our growth”.

He continued: “Our 327-year-old family company has undergone an impressive business transformation over the past seven years.

“I want to take the opportunity and thank Jan Willem sincerely for his imperative support and guidance during this very important period for the company, which is now well positioned for its next growth phase.”

Stoppelenburg began his career at Swedish food packaging company Tetra Pak where he spent 15 years in leadership positions in the Middle East, Asia and Europe. His most recent role at the company was managing director of Tetra Pak’s Benelux business.

He then became CEO of Swedish fashion firm Gant for six years, followed by CEO at Dutch fashion label Scotch & Soda.

Stoppelenburg is currently chairman of the supervisory board of the Mirage Retail Group (MRG), owner of Dutch retail chains Blokker, BCC and Intertoys.

“I am keen to return to my roots in the beverage industry and look forward to supporting De Kuyper’s long-term growth and fulfilling its great vision to ‘own the cocktail’,” said Stoppelenburg. “I am convinced that the advantages of a family business will drive these ambitions.”

Earlier this month, De Kuyper acquired peach schnapps brand Archers from Diageo for an undisclosed sum.