The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Welsh soft drinks producer Radnor Hills has appointed Simon Knight as its new managing director, with former MD William Watkins taking up the role of CEO. Knight officially takes up the role today (3 June 2024), having previously worked as a consultant for the Powys-based company for the past two years. He has over 30 years’ experience in the FMCG industry, including roles in sales and marketing at Burts Snacks and Mars Wrigley. During his time at Burt Snacks, Knight helped to drive the business from an £11 million to a £57 million turnover. Watkins, who founded Radnor Hills in 1990, said that he was delighted to welcome Knight to the role, praising his track record of growing businesses profitably, driving efficiencies and building relationships with a clear strategic focus. “These are exciting times for the business,” he added, “Radnor Hills continues to grow, and Simon’s focus will be on the day-to-day running of the business, allowing me to focus on the longer-term projects and ensuring we continue to have in place the capacity to keep up with the demand of our products.” Radnor produces a range of still, sparkling and flavoured drinks all made with pure spring water sourced from its boreholes. It produces over 400 million drinks each year across its brands including Radnor Hills Spring Water, Heartsease Farm and Radnor Splash. Last year, the company acquired Highland Spring Group’s Welsh production site in Blaen Twyni, Swansea. It also unveiled a multi-million-pound investment in its manufacturing site and office facilities in Knighton, Powys. Additionally, a £1.8m investment in solar panels now provides 25% of the factory’s electricity requirement. Knight commented: ““I’m thrilled to be joining Radnor at such an interesting time. We have a great range of brands and lots of exciting new product development in the pipeline.” He added: “The real magic is in Radnor’s basket of products which have been perfected for over 36 years. The company produces every format from one site, including glass, RPET plastic, Tetra Pak and cans. I intend to bring a strategic and collaborative focus to my new role and will be setting very clear goals that bring the wider team together as one.”