Glass container manufacturer Arglass has appointed beverage industry expert Ron Holmes as its new vice president of sales, marketing & sustainability. Holmes will oversee and promote the company’s substantial sustainability efforts as it prepares to expand production capabilities at its Valdosta, Georgia, headquarters.

Holmes joins Arglass from alcoholic beverage company Diageo, from which he brings over 15 years of experience in sustainability and environmental safety. As head of its North American packaging and technology department, Holmes reduced Diageo’s paper consumption by 10 million pounds and carbon emissions by 10 thousand metric tons. He most recently ran sustainability operations and communications for Diageo’s tequila division, and he previously headed environmental safety efforts within General Electric’s transportation and aviation divisions.

Holmes brings his extensive expertise in sustainability operations and marketing to Arglass at a pivotal point for the company. In the coming months, company will expand its state-of-the-art production capabilities while also advancing sustainability efforts through closed-loop water systems, carbon-negative raw materials and a glass recycling partnership with The Upcycling Company.

"Arglass sets the standard for sustainability in the glass container industry with its commitment to constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation throughout its operations," said Holmes. "Glass may be an old invention, but it holds the key to a more sustainable future, and I’m excited to join a company so dedicated to that endeavor."

"Ron brings a track record of excellence as Arglass prepares to break new ground in the glass manufacturing industry’s sustainability efforts," said Arglass Chairman and CEO José de Diego Arozamena. "His expertise is exactly what we need to ensure our facility continues to be the most innovative and sustainable in North America."