Senior management appointment at Miller Brands UK

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Gary Haigh has been appointed as Managing Director of Miller Brands UK. Mr Haigh is currently President of SABMiller subsidiary Kompania Piwowarska in Poland and succeeds Nick Miller, who announced his resignation in July 2011.

Mr Haigh was appointed as Managing Director of Kompania Piwowarska in June 2009. He joined SABMiller in 2005 as Managing Director of its European Export Division, where he tripled the division’s lager volumes in his first three years and set up successful operations in Spain, Sweden, Austria and France.

Alan Clark, Managing Director, SABMiller Europe, commented: “I am delighted that Gary will be taking the helm at our strong and growing Miller Brands business. The UK team will benefit from his experience in the beverages industry and his proven track record in establishing and building premium import beer brands in European markets.”

Gary Haigh, currently President of Kompania Piwowarska, commented: “The UK’s appetite for premium beer continues to grow, making this an exciting market. I look forward to building on Miller Brands’ strong growth trajectory in the UK and contributing to its future growth.”

In the twelve months to 31 March 2011, Miller Brands’ lager volumes rose by 23%. All brands in the UK portfolio recorded double digit growth, with Peroni Nastro Azzurro growing volume 21% in the context of a premium lager sector which grew only marginally.

Gary Haigh will assume the role of Managing Director, Miller Brands, in mid-September 2011. Rob Priday, currently President of SABMiller’s Peruvian subsidiary, Backus, will succeed Mr Haigh as President of Kompania Piwowarska in October 2011.