Pub trade representative body, PubAid, has appointed Kate Nicholls OBE – the current chair of UKHospitality – as its new president.
Nicholls succeeds Keith Bott MBE, who steps down after six years of service to the organisation, which styles itself as ‘the positive voice for pubs’.
Drawing on her ‘deep understanding of government, policy and the wider hospitality landscape’, Nicholls will now support the organisation’s long-term strategy to keep positive stories about pubs at the forefront of public and political debate.
She said: “Pubs sit at the heart of every community driving local economies, supporting communities, contributing to an active nation through funding community sport, fundraising and bringing people together in ways that few other places can.
“I’m honoured to take on the role of president at PubAid, whose work in highlighting and celebrating these positive stories has never been more important.
“I look forward to building on the fantastic foundation to ensure that the true value of the great British pub is recognised by government, media and the public alike.”
PubAid’s initiatives include the Community Pub Hero Awards with the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group and the Positive PUBlicity Hub, which showcases positive pub stories to MPs and media, alongside research demonstrating how pubs power active, healthy communities through grassroots sport.
Nicholls first bit of official business will be in the UK Parliament, presenting PubAid’s latest research on the positive impact that pubs have on community sport.
Co-founder of PubAid, Des O’Flanagan, said: “Kate’s appointment is a brilliant step forward for PubAid.
“Her influence, knowledge and passion for our sector will help us reach new audiences and continue to showcase the incredible role pubs play across the UK.”
