Guinness sets up integrated npd centre

Guinness Brewing Great Britain is setting up a new division called the Innovation Unit which will integrate all its new product and new business development work into one department.

It is thought to be the first time a brewer has set up such a venture, which Guinness says will “cover every aspect of the beer process”. A spokesman says the unit will look at everything from new product development, product supply and packaging to production and how to get products to the market quickly.

Guinness has appointed Mike Jobson, an account director for selling Guinness into pubs, as director of the innovation unit. He will report to Guinness GB marketing director Julian Spooner.

Jobson said: “My role will be to harness the expertise of the different members of the team so that business development opportunities can be pursued across Guinness Brewing GB.”

The Unit has also brought in npd brand marketing manager Helen Quigley, product controller Paul Schroeder and research and planning manager Nicky Perkins.