UNESDA has appointed Natalia Filipposyants, senior vice president and general manager for Europe at PepsiCo International Beverages, as president of the European soft drinks trade association.

Filipposyants takes over the role with immediate effect and will serve a two-year term, succeeding Andrew McMillin.

Commenting on her appointment, Filipposyants highlighted the economic contribution of the European soft drinks sector, noting that it supports more than 1.8 million jobs and generates €242 billion in revenue across industries including agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, retail and hospitality.

She said the industry is operating in an environment shaped by changing consumer expectations, alongside growing economic and regulatory pressures. According to Filipposyants, consumers are increasingly seeking greater choice, transparency, functionality and sustainability, prompting manufacturers to accelerate innovation and expand portfolios of low- and no-sugar beverages.

Filipposyants also reaffirmed her commitment to working closely with UNESDA members, policymakers and other stakeholders to help create a stable regulatory environment that supports investment, innovation and competitiveness across Europe.

UNESDA director general Nicholas Hodac welcomed the appointment, adding: "Under [Filipposyants] leadership and together with our closely connected membership, we will continue to demonstrate the active role of our sector in supporting balanced beverage choices and driving innovation, sustainable growth, and prosperity for Europe.’’

Hodac also thanked outgoing president Andrew McMillin for his contribution to advancing the industry's priorities, particularly in areas such as innovation, growth and regulatory simplification during the start of the European Union’s new political mandate.