Coca-Cola’s Andrew McMillin appointed President of UNESDA Soft Drinks Europe 

EU – UNESDA Soft Drinks Europe, the European trade association representing the soft drinks industry, has appointed Andrew McMillin as its new president.  

McMillin, who currently serves as President of Western Europe Operations at The Coca-Cola Company, succeeds Peter Harding, CEO of Suntory Beverage & Food International. 

McMillin’s appointment comes at a time of growth for UNESDA, with the association recently expanding its membership.  

Nicholas Hodac, UNESDA’s General Director, expressed his enthusiasm for working with McMillin to advance the sector’s initiatives. 

“I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to our outgoing President, Peter Harding, for his exceptional leadership and unwavering support during his tenure. Peter skillfully guided us through a very dynamic EU mandate, helping us to strengthen our strategic direction and constructive credentials,” Hodac stated. 

McMillin brings over two decades of experience in the beverage and consumer goods industry. Since joining The Coca-Cola Company in 2001, he has held key roles in consumer marketing, commercial operations, and franchise leadership.  

His previous positions include Senior Vice President of the Coca-Cola brand portfolio, Chief Marketing Officer of North America Foodservice, and leadership of Coca-Cola’s Walmart/Sam’s marketing team. Before his tenure at Coca-Cola, McMillin spent six years at Ford Motor Company in various brand management and sales roles. 

Speaking on his new role, McMillin highlighted the significant contributions of the soft drinks industry to the European economy.  

“The soft drinks sector plays an important role in supporting the European economy by providing over 1.8 million direct and indirect jobs, and creating €242 billion in value across its supply chain. A recent report established the soft drinks industry as a leader in innovation within the food and beverage sector,” he said. 

The announcement follows UNESDA’s recent expansion, which saw Carlsberg, Monster Energy, and Royal Unibrew join as members, alongside the Hungarian Soft Drinks Association (MAGYÜSZ) and the Polish Federation of Food Industry Union of Employers (PFPZ). 

With these additions, UNESDA now comprises 39 members, including 12 companies and 27 national associations from across Europe. 

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