Celebrating the incredible and influential women of the drinks industry
For International Women’s Day, SLTN spoke to leading drinks industry women to hear their experiences of the past, present and future of the sector’s journey towards equality.
International Women’s Day 2024 – Cara Laing of Douglas Laing & Co
"Over my 18 years in the Whisky industry, I’ve had the opportunity to work with some incredible women who I have learned so much from… I still lean on much of what they taught me."
International Women’s Day 2024 – Anna MacDonald of Diageo GB
“Being a mother of two children and working full-time means that I have a lot to juggle! It also means that some days are good, and others are not as good. it is important to be open about this"
International Women’s Day 2024 – Ainslie Kelly of Disaronno International UK
“As a female in an industry that is predominantly male led, it’s been such a personal achievement to progress naturally throughout the various roles I’ve had in my career..."
International Women’s Day 2024 – Ali Johnstone and Judith Anderson of Molson Coors
"Inclusivity is rightly becoming an expectation across all business. When we all feel like we belong, better things happen, for us personally, for our teams and for our business..."
International Women’s Day 2024 – Liz Lock of Speciality Drinks
"People are naturally drawn to environments where they feel appreciated and respected, and they're more inclined to develop long-term relationships with businesses that embody these values."
International Women’s Day 2024 – Margaret Nicol of Whyte & Mackay
"It is important to remember that inclusion is not all about one type of community, or another. It affects everyone. As a ‘more experienced’ member of the company it was important to represent that side of the business."
International Women’s Day 2024 – Gemma Wills of Accolade Wines
"I’ve reflected back to times when I have been uncomfortable, or had to behave a certain way just to be heard, and whilst I know this has shaped who I am today, I also hope that future generations will have a much more level playing field."
International Women’s Day 2024 – Lucky Saint’s Mary Lynch & Sacha Harvey
"22% of the beer and pub workforce identify as female, with just 5% of brewers in the UK identifying as female. Although progress is being made, there’s still lots of room for improvement."
Isle of Skye’s Café Cùil announces new Raasay Distillery partnership
Café and distillery will together host a series of supper clubs throughout the year, while a new menu of distillery-inspired drinks and dishes will feature at the cafe.
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Luke Richardson
William Woodburn
