FoodDrinkEurope, which represents the European food and drink industry, has elected Henrik Samuelson as its new chair.
Samuelson, who currently serves as the SVP of customer brands at the Finnish food and beverage firm Paulig, is also the first Swede to assume this role.
He will succeed Marco Settembri, the former CEO of Nestlé Zone Europe, who held the position of president at FoodDrinkEurope since 2020.
Commenting on the appointment, Samuelson stated, "I am very honoured to have been trusted to take over as chairman of FoodDrinkEurope. The food industry plays a crucial role in the EU's political goals of competitiveness, sustainability and secure access to food and drink.
"I look forward to working together with the entire European industry and strengthening our partnerships with decision-makers, farmers, grocers, consumers and other interests to push for lasting and positive change in our food systems."
Henrik Samuelson
Samuelson is an accomplished professional and has been with Paulig since 2014.
He has also been a member of Livsmedelsföretagen's (Swedish Food Federation) board since 2019.
Recently, he completed four years as the chair of the Danish Grocery Suppliers (DLF).
Henrik has represented the Nordic countries and Estonia on FoodDrinkEurope's board since 2021.
CEO of Livsmedelsföretagen, Björn Hellman, stated, "The food companies have been one of the most active members within FoodDrinkEurope for many years and are now looking forward to further deepening the collaboration with our European colleagues.
"With the election of Henrik, FoodDrinkEurope has gained a committed and knowledgeable chairman who will be a great asset in making the food industry's voice heard within the EU."
