Can Makers UK appoints new Chairman

The Can Makers UK has confirmed the appointment of John O’Maoileoin, Group Global Sustainability Director at CANPACK, as its new chairman.

John takes over from Tim Conybeare, Commercial Director UK & Ireland at Crown Bevcan EMEA, who has completed his term under the association’s rotating chairmanship. John brings more than 15 years of experience across commercially focused roles at CANPACK, Aldi, Dairy Crest and Tesco, with a particular focus on sustainability, brand communications and responsible business strategy.

He said: “We have seen real progress across the can industry in the last few years, from stronger recycling performance to new formats and designs that reflect how consumer expectations are changing. Consumers want high quality packaging that is convenient and sustainable, and the can continues to deliver on all fronts, helping brands to drive improvements in environmental performance.

“My background in sustainability and brand communication has given me a clear view of how quickly expectations are evolving from consumers, brands and retailers, as well as policymakers and the wider value chain. The beverage can industry is ideally positioned to support the shared ambition for a more circular economy, while helping brands to establish a premium position in their market.”

In recent years, Can Makers UK has helped raise awareness of the beverage can’s strengths through a wide range of activities: commissioning consumer research on recycling and preferences, recognising stand-out packaging design through the Design Accolades and publishing insightful articles that highlight the growth of new categories like wine, cocktails and functional drinks in cans. The Association also expanded its communications through partnerships with credible influencers, helping more people understand the environmental credentials of the beverage can which remains the most recycled beverage pack format in the world.

John added: “I would like to thank Tim for his leadership during the past term. He has helped guide the association through an important period and I look forward to building on that work with members and stakeholders from across the sector.”

As chairman, John will champion Can Makers UK priorities for 2026, overseeing a wide range of campaigns designed to showcase the benefits of cans for stakeholders across the value chain and help consumers understand how their choices contribute to a more sustainable packaging landscape.