Vimto boss heads to Buckingham Palace to pick up gong
One of the region’s best-known businesswomen has been honoured by the Queen.
Marnie Millard, chief executive of Vimto maker Nichols, was presented with an OBE in recognition of her contributions to business and international trade.
Marnie received the honour from Prince William at Buckingham Palace.
Marnie joined the Newton-le-Willows firm as managing director in October 2012 and just eight months later was made chief executive.
She has overseen the international growth of a number of brands including Vimto, which has become a leader in the soft drinks market.
Marnie’s impact on the brand guided it to its highest ever global value following its industrial Manchester origins back in 1908.
This year, the brand celebrates its 110th anniversary.
Moving to the North 25 years ago, Marnie has become an instrumental northern leader and an advocate of the Northern Powerhouse, she is actively involved in promoting the movement of big businesses to the North.
She said: “It’s been an incredible day, I’ve loved every minute. It was an absolute honour to meet Prince William and to be recognised as someone who is helping our businesses continue to drive change across the UK and on a global scale.”
Part of her role has involved lecturing at Manchester Metropolitan University, as well as talking on the subject of careers at colleges and schools up and down the UK, teaching International Business and Leadership.
In the spirit of supporting northern businesses, when receiving her award, Marnie wore a custom-made dress by Manchester-based designers, Careaux.
She said: “Careaux is a great concept with a very practical USP; it creates two-piece dresses which are joined together by a single zip, meaning I can split the dress apart and wear it as separates in the future, so it won’t be left in the back of the wardrobe.
“It is a bespoke garment which was designed to suit my shape and style, down to the last stitch in a very apt Vimto purple.”
Marnie now has her sights set on continuing to grow the Nichols empire and supporting young people in the UK who want to get into business through apprenticeships and internships.
