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De Kuyper Royal Distillers announces new CEO
Leading liqueur producer De Kuyper Royal Distillers has announced the retirement of CEO Mark de Witte and the appointment of his successor.
The Dutch company, which produces the likes of Mandarine Napoléon, Archers Peach Schnapps (acquired from Diageo last year), cherry liqueur brand Heering, and Acqua Bianca, has announced that De Witte will be stepping down on 30 April 2024 after nine years as CEO, during which time turnover almost trebled, partly a result of the company’s ability to capitalise on the mixology boom with its ‘Own the Cocktail’ motto.
“It has been a great privilege to lead De Kuyper through a period of significant transformation and growth,” De Witte reflected. “I am very proud of my team and of what we have accomplished together. Also, I am grateful for the confidence and support of the Supervisory Board as well as of the De Kuyper Royal Distillers shareholders.”
Stepping into the role on 1 May will be drinks industry veteran Leo Evers, who began his career in 1990 working for Bols International before spending 25 years with the Heineken Group. In 2021 he joined Carlsberg as executive vice president Asia.
Evers said of his appointment to CEO of De Kuyper: “For most of my professional career, I have worked for family-owned businesses whose rich heritage I value highly. I love to work for companies with passionate people, fantastic brands, and those that are looking for long-term sustainable growth. De Kuyper has an incredibly rich history encompassing over three centuries and continues to demonstrate its relevance today.”
De Kuyper was founded by Petrus De Kuyper in 1695 as a cask manufacturer. In the mid-18th century it would begin distilling gin, and eventually start to produce liqueurs. The company received the ‘Royal’ part of its title in 1995, on the occasion of its 300th anniversary.
“Personally, I believe that De Kuyper is a company that is well positioned after the transformation of the last nine years and has massive opportunities for the future, especially by continuing to ‘Own the Cocktail’ and by further expanding internationally,” Evers shared.