Simone Caporale, Millie Tang, Iain McPherson and Vasilis Kyritsis have been named as the pioneering talent for a unique and world-leading advocacy platform - Schweppes Pioneers.
The ambitious advocacy platform is a bold demonstration of Schweppes’ dedication to amplifying its position at the very top of the global hospitality industry. The appointment of these four famous individuals - each with their own undoubtedly pioneering skill set - will provide unbelievable access and opportunities for younger bartenders to learn from the very best. The aim is to truly inspire the next generation of pioneering bartenders, just as Jacob Schweppe did with his groundbreaking method of carbonation back in 1783.
The Schweppes Pioneers programme will result in a series of Summits hosted during key on-trade events around the world. With education at the fore - these Summits will focus on bartender skill-set development and groundbreaking techniques to improve behind-the-bar operations, responsible drinking, and tapping into each of the industry leading talent’s specific areas of expertise.
Iain McPherson - Pioneering Freezing Techniques | Temperature
Simone Caporale - Pioneering Menu Creation | Glassware & Vessels
Millie Tang - Pioneering Drinks Photography | Highball Garnishes
Vasilis Kyritsis - Pioneering Balance | Highball Techniques
The modules will become the foundation of Schweppes bartender training, delivered by country brand ambassadors to bartenders of all levels in Coca-Cola owned Schweppes markets around the world.
The pioneering topics will also underpin Schweppes Pioneers bartender competition, set to become one of the industry’s most revered accolades for bartenders. With the European final taking place in Athens this November - a full market rollout is scheduled for 2026.
Simone Caporale, Schweppes Pioneer, said of the programme “Schweppes Pioneers has my admiration, respect and support. It is important to me to share what I have developed and mastered over the years with those who want to learn. To see a brand like Schweppes decide to break the mould and pioneer this initiative is inspiring and I am honoured to be part of it!”
The four hospitality legends have been chosen as some of the most recognised individuals within the global bar industry and undisputed bartending pioneers. The well-respected individuals are part of the pool of talent managed by Global Bartending - the luxury partner for the global drinks industry - who have also created and will be managing the Schweppes Pioneers advocacy platform.
Nicola Barrett, Vice President - Global Brand Strategy at The Coca-Cola Company, said “We are dedicated to creating something groundbreaking with the Schweppes Pioneers Advocacy Programme. We chose these four individuals based on their pioneering spirit, and their capacity to defy convention.
"This new programme is something we’re committed to for the long-run, and we’re looking forward to seeing how many thousands of young bartenders we can inspire.”
The announcement of Schweppes Pioneers comes at the same time as a refreshed look and feel for the historic brand - with design elements focusing on the long, rich heritage and the brand's pioneering method of carbonation.