Allen steps down as chair of Irn-Bru firm AG Barr – Daily Business

AG Barr chair Mark Allen is stepping down from the Scottish soft drinks maker today to focus on his executive role at Hilton Food Group.

Susan Barratt, senior independent director, will serve as interim chair of the Cumbernauld-based maker of Irn-Bru while an independent search for a successor is conducted.

Louise Smalley will take on the senior independent director role.

Mr Allen was appointed as a non-executive director in July 2021 and became chair in March 2022.

Following his early career in the police force he completed a law degree and subsequently held a variety of corporate roles.  He worked initially with Shell and and latterly with Dairy Crest where he was CEO from 2007 to 2019.  

He has held non-executive roles at Howdens, Dairy UK, Warburtons and Norcros, where he was chair from July 2020 until April 2021.

The company also confirmed it will release a trading update for the financial year ending 31 January 2026 on 3 February, followed by final results in March.

Mr Allen said: “It’s been an enormous privilege serving as chair of AG Barr as the company has strengthened and innovated its brand portfolio, driven value-creating M&A, and delivered value for shareholders.

“The business is in great shape and now is the right time to pass on the baton and focus on my other commitments.”

Ms Barratt said: “On behalf of the board, I would like to express our gratitude to Mark for his outstanding contribution and dedicated service to AG Barr over the last five years. He has built and led a high-quality Board and advanced the strategic direction for the business. He leaves AG Barr in a strong position, and we wish him all the best for the future.”