A new business network ‘Raising The Glass’, aimed at driving inclusivity for women across the drinks industry, has been launched by female leaders from across the drinks trade.
Founded by Rebecca Oliver-Mooney, head of commercial drinks for Co-op, the initiative has been supported by leaders from Red Bull, Double Dutch, North South Wines, and Warner’s Distillery to create the new free subscriber network, which is open to women and allies working across all drinks categories in the industry including both the on and off-trade. This new initiative aims to create opportunities that will enable new connections, engagement and mentorship, as well as quarterly in-person events.
The launch of the network comes after the Co-op leader moved into the drinks category in 2023 and realised there was a gap in the industry for celebrating and nurturing female talent.
Oliver-Mooney is supported by Double Dutch Co-Founders Joyce De Haas and Raissa de Haas, Red Bull Category and E-commerce Director, Lotte Tregear, North South Wines Founder and Managing Director Kim Wilson, and Warner’s Distillery Co-Founder and Co-CEO Tina Warner-Keogh.
Oliver-Mooney said: “The drinks trade is bursting with talent and I’m thrilled to be collaborating with leading figures to drive inclusivity and foster a community where diversity is celebrated, voices are heard, and opportunities are abundant. Through our commitment to empowerment and collaboration, the network aims to build a future where everyone feels valued, respected and supported in their journey within the drinks industry.”
The quarterly in-person events will include panel discussions with the co-creators and other inspirational guests on their experiences in the industry, their key learnings, allyship and the importance of a supporting network. The first event, taking place on the 18 July at Red Bull Head Office, has sold out. Attendees for future events are asked to subscribe by signing up at www.raisingtheglass.co.uk
The network has also launched a podcast, hosted by Rebecca, with guests from across the industry discussing their learnings from the challenges faced by the industry to celebrating their triumphs, delivered with a long serving of honesty and a dash of humour.