NETHERLANDS: Baarsma names Frans Barel as chairman

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 20 November 2007

Netherlands-based wine distributor Baarsma Wine Group Holding has announced the appointment of Frans Barel as chairman of its Supervisory Board with effect from 1 October.

Barel was the founder and a former chief executive of fruit juice and soft drinks producer Refresco Holding and remains on that company's Supervisory Board.

"We are very delighted that Frans Barel has agreed to take up the position as chairman of the Supervisory Board," said Baarsma chief operating officer Cees de Rade. "With his background, knowledge and experience at Refresco, he will be of great value to Baarsma Wine Group Holding with regard to our 'Buy & Build' strategy."

Baarsma operates a network of companies in the Benelux region including Baarsma Wine Group Netherlands, Wine Excel, Oud Reuchlin & Boelen, Hasselt Millesime and Lovian. It has an annual turnover of EUR220m (US$320m) and employs 300 people.