Diageo wins prestigious ‘Britain’s Most Admired Company’ award

Diageo plc, the world’s leading premium drinks business, has been named ‘Britain’s Most Admired Company’ in a peer review of corporate reputation run by leading UK business magazine, Management Today. In addition to winning the overall award, Diageo is ranked as the top company in the Beverages sector.

Aside from winning this year, Diageo also won the award for the first time in 2008 and came second in 2011, narrowly missing out on first place by just 0.60 points. Only two other companies have achieved multiple wins since 1994 – Tesco and Cadbury Schweppes.

Commenting on the award, Paul Walsh said: “I am delighted and proud that Diageo has been named Britain’s Most Admired Company for the second time. We are also pleased to have continued our leadership of the Beverages sector. This award is testament to the efforts of everyone in Diageo in delivering strong holistic performance in these most uncertain economic times. It is truly one of the most prestigious corporate awards and it is a huge honour to be recognised by our peers in this way”.

To collate the rankings, board level representatives, analysts at leading City investment firms and City commentators are required to rate the other companies in their own sector on nine performance criteria. The criteria range from rating quality of management and ability to attract, develop and retain top talent; to community and environmental responsibility and capacity to innovate. Overall, Diageo was ranked in the top ten for six of these criteria, and came first in all nine criteria for the Beverages sector.

Matthew Gwyther, editor of Management Today, said: “Diageo’s win is a victory which proves that in the 21st century, the laurels go to those who reach way beyond traditional export markets, to all corners of the globe. Its impressive growth in emerging markets, some 15% per annum, and continuing success is a trajectory that many British firms would dearly love to emulate.”

The award will be accepted on behalf of Diageo by Paul Walsh, Chief executive officer and Gareth Williams, Human Resources director, at a gala dinner on Wednesday 5th December.