Supply chain professionals from across the drinks industry came together in Sydney on 15th & 16th September for practical insights, industry discussion and peer-to-peer knowledge sharing at The Drinks Association’s recent Supply Chain & Logistics Forum.
Chaired by CCEP’s Michael Whitford, the Forum brought together representatives from Drinks Association Members and Partners to explore both the immediate pressures facing supply chain teams and the longer-term changes impacting the way the industry operates.
Preparing for change
GS1 Senior Industry Development Manager Peter Davenport explored the growing importance of building a machine-readable supply chain in the age of AI. The session highlighted the need for businesses to have structured, AI-ready data to support greater connectivity across the supply chain.
As technology and regulation continue to evolve, the session gave attendees an opportunity to consider the practical implications for their businesses and supply chain operations, and how they can prepare for what lies ahead.
The Forum also explored emerging risks and challenges facing the transport and logistics sector. BevChain’s Clint Terbogt provided an update on changes to NHVR legislation and their potential impact on the transport industry, alongside discussions on physical and cyber security and the growing role of AI.
Supporting talent, inclusion and wellbeing
Also showcased were examples of initiatives and approaches being implemented across the industry.
CCEP’s Kate Powell and Renee McAneney shared insights into what recruiting the next generation of supply chain talent looks like at CCEP, sharing initiatives the business has introduced and the positive impact they have had on attracting and retaining more women in supply chain and operational roles. The session highlighted the importance of building the skills and talent needed for the future, while creating greater opportunities for women across the industry.
In exploring how businesses can create safer and more supportive workplaces, LION’s Head of DE&I, Sarah Abbott, shared the work behind Safe Pathways, LION’s domestic and family abuse support initiative. The initiative was recognised with the Best DE&I Initiative award at the 2026 Australian Drinks Awards.
Rachel Wormald from The Drinks Association provided an update on the CHECK IN.CHECK UP initiative, developed by the Embrace Difference Council to highlight the importance of men’s mental and physical wellbeing. The Drinks Association will be supporting the initiative throughout November and encouraged businesses across the industry to get behind CHECK IN.CHECK UP by developing activities and conversations within their own workplaces.
Insights and innovation in supply chain
Advantage Group Director, Client Services, Mark Emery shared key takeaways from the 2026 Advantage Engagement Survey, exploring what the findings mean for supply chain teams and how they can strengthen engagement with customers and partners.
The afternoon then turned to practical examples of supply chain transformation, with Hill-Smith Family Estates’ Jess Button sharing the changes the business has made to its supply chain this year. Her insights highlighted the different approaches taken by the business and the impact they have had, culminating in Hill-Smith Family Estates taking out the Supply Chain Management Award at the 2026 Australian Drinks Awards.
Sustainability in focus
Sustainability was another key theme, with Hillebrand Gori’s Nathan Scholz and Rintira Sutthitham exploring the role of bulk beverage services in supporting more sustainable supply chains.
With 68% of wine exports delivered in bulk, the session highlighted the scale of the opportunity to drive greater sustainability across wine logistics. Nathan and Rintira shared examples of innovations being implemented by Hillebrand Gori, demonstrating how the business is putting sustainability at the forefront of its operations and helping to shape more efficient and sustainable approaches to beverage transport.
Connecting the industry
The Forum also allowed time for connection, with attendees putting their golf skills to the test at Playview Indoor Golf in a relaxed and informal setting. With players of all abilities taking part, the session provided a fun opportunity for attendees to get to know each other and build connections beyond the Forum sessions.
The Forum concluded with a product tasting and education session focused on St-Germain: The Curious Elderflower, led by Bacardi National Brand Ambassador Kayla Grigoriou.
With representatives from across the drinks industry participating, the September Supply Chain & Logistics Forum reinforced the value of bringing supply chain and logistics professionals together to share knowledge, challenge thinking and learn from each other.
The September Supply Chain & Logistics Forum was held at the Hilton Hotel, Sydney, on 16 September 2026.