Porter is new Benevolent chairman

The Benevolent’s new chairman, Chris Porter of the Porter & Laker Division at JF Hillebrand, has pledged to use his expertise in connecting the industry logistically to unite the drinks business community in support of its trade charity. Chris has over 25 years’ experience providing transport and logistics to the independent wine trade and is only the second chairman in the charity’s 126 year history from a logistics service background.

Chris Porter’s two year appointment as chairman was announced at The Vintners’ Company wine trade lunch in aid of the Benevolent which was attended by 120 senior members of the trade at The Vintner’s Hall on January 11.

At the luncheon it was also announced that the chairman’s flagship initiative for 2013 will be a JF Hillebrand backed £1-per-order fundraiser. All funds raised will benefit members of the trade and their families facing serious issues such as long-term illness, homelessness, poverty and disability. Every £1 donated by its customers will be matched by JF Hillebrand. As well as delivering much-needed funding it is hoped that the initiative will raise awareness of The Benevolent’s charitable work to those parts of the trade that are not currently engaged.

14 January 2013 - Felicity Murray