Suntory Beverage & Food Europe announces partnership with LEAD Network to accelerate DE&I progress
Suntory Beverage & Food Europe (SBFE), a regional division of Suntory, one of the world’s leading beverage companies, is proud to announce its partnership with LEAD Network, a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing gender equality in the consumer goods and retail sector. This collaboration, effective from early 2025, marks an important step in accelerating our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) priorities.
Through this partnership, we will gain access to a vast network of over 23,000 industry peers, fostering meaningful connections and driving positive change. Our employees will have the opportunity to engage with exclusive resources, events, and volunteer initiatives within the LEAD Network community.
"I have been a proud member of the LEAD Network since 2015, benefiting from its opportunities to learn and share experiences through conferences and focus groups. I’ve remained an active member because LEAD is about doing, not just trying. As a member of Suntory’s Executive team, I am both excited and honoured to see Suntory not only joining LEAD but also embracing this same action-driven commitment to diversity and inclusion," said Alina Nickolson, COO SBF EECM-Benelux.
Additionally, this collaboration will support the development of our teams through essential conversations, learning experiences, and recognition as a champion for gender equality in the industry.
“At Suntory Beverage and Food Europe , we are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. This partnership with LEAD Network strengthens our ability to drive real impact, reinforcing our dedication to gender equality and long-term DE&I progress.” said Pierre Decroix, CEO SBFE.
This initiative aligns with our broader commitment to #AccelerateAction in DE&I, ensuring a more inclusive and equitable future for our workforce and beyond. Currently the SBFE organisation has 50% female representation at SBFE Executive Committee, and 38.5% at Senior Executive level.*
Expanding our commitment to Gender Equality: Employee Impact Groups & Leadership Development
In addition to our partnership with LEAD Network, we are actively driving gender equality through other key initiatives such as our Women Leadership Accelerator program and the launch of Employee Impact Groups (EIGs).
Our Women Leadership Accelerator program is designed to drive meaningful change by addressing gender inclusion at every level of the organisation. Taking a “whole system” approach, the programme empowers women to recognise and overcome gender-specific barriers, equips managers to fully unlock the potential of women in their teams, and strengthens commitment at the organisational level by establishing concrete goals through active sponsorship.
“Being part of this program has significantly impacted my personal and professional growth. As a relatively young women in a senior role, I experienced a lot of self-doubt. The safe environment and connections with my peers made me feel like I have the permission to stand up for my own development and to build the confidence to maintain my ambition and passion for a career beyond this programme.” – Laura Schacht, Head of Sustainability & External Affairs, SBF EECM-Benelux.
In 2024, SBF GB&I and SBF Spain both launched their first Employee Impact Group (EIG) with an initial focus on supporting women in the workplace. There are plans to broaden the scope of the EIGs to other priority topics in the future. In 2025, it will be time for SBF EECM-Benelux to launch its EIG, as well. The group’s mission is to empower women in our business to achieve their own version of success by fostering a supportive community, sharing insights, and identifying growth opportunities.
"I'm incredibly proud to lead the Women's EIG in our business. Our group exists to advocate for positive change and our goal is to make every woman feel empowered to achieve their own version of success. We know our business already does so much for women, but we recognise we're not perfect and by bringing together this passionate group of employees, we can do our bit to push for more." - Avgi Tsotsou, Women's EIG Lead – SBF GB&I
By embedding these initiatives into our culture, we are strengthening our commitment to advancing gender equality and fostering a more inclusive workplace where every individual can thrive.
Learn more about our DE&I commitments here: SBFE DEI policy 2024
About Suntory Beverage & Food Europe
Suntory Beverage & Food Europe (SBFE) was established in 2014 and is a regional division of the Japan-based Suntory Group, one of the leading global drinks companies. We’re proud to be part of a family-owned business with its inspiring 120-year heritage and we are guided by Shinjiro Torii’s founding spirit. SBFE is made up of 3,600 passionate people working throughout Europe on hugely iconic brands including Schweppes*, Orangina, Lucozade, Ribena, La Casera, Oasis* and Pulco with a commitment to producing great-tasting, healthier drinks. Through all of its corporate pursuits, Suntory seeks to inspire the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. For more information, please visit our website and LinkedIn.
*Owned and commercialized within SBFE respective territories
About LEAD Network
LEAD Network is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing gender equality in the Consumer Goods and Retail industry across Europe. Established in 2011, it has grown into a thriving community of over 23,000 members spanning from Sweden to Spain and beyond.
With a strong focus on promoting inclusion, LEAD Network supports the advancement of women of all backgrounds—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, educational background, national origin, religion, physical ability, or lifestyle. Through its initiatives, the organisation strives to create a more equitable and diverse industry for all.
For more information, please visit the website and LinkedIn.
*Page 84-86 SBFE 2023 Sustainability Report