Danone’s Guillaume Millet takes helm at Plant-Based Foods Europe

Guillaume Millet, Vice-President Plant-Based at Danone, has been unanimously elected President of Plant-Based Foods Europe, the leading Brussels-based trade association representing plant-based food companies across the continent. His appointment was confirmed on 13 June 2025, and he will serve a three-year term through 2028.

Millet will lead a newly appointed board that includes several high-profile industry figures: Cecilia McAleavey, Vice-President Global Public Affairs at Oatly; Andrea Panzani, CEO & General Manager of Valsoia; Guillaume Debrosse, CEO of Olga; and Luis Uribe, President of Nutrition & Santé. Their election signals continued momentum for a sector that has grown rapidly over the past two decades.

In a statement following his appointment, Millet described the moment as a turning point for the industry. “This is a pivotal moment for the plant-based foods sector, full of opportunity and momentum,” he said. “As president, I’m encouraged by how strongly aligned our members are in our shared priorities, particularly our joint commitment to supporting a competitive, sustainable, and resilient future for Europe.”

The new leadership takes over at a time when plant-based foods are increasingly recognized not only as consumer-friendly innovations but also as tools to address broader societal challenges such as climate change, public health, and food security.

Plant-Based Foods Europe, which advocates on behalf of companies producing alternatives to meat, dairy, and other animal products, said the group’s efforts over the past 20 years have helped establish the sector as a vital part of Europe’s agrifood system. It has consistently pushed for greater political support and regulatory clarity, engaging policymakers and stakeholders to raise awareness of the benefits of shifting toward plant-based diets.

Its members argue that plant-based food production can reduce environmental impact, support healthier eating habits, and contribute to a more resilient and competitive European economy. The new board is expected to continue advocating for policies that facilitate innovation, investment, and access to plant-based options across the EU.

With Danone, Millet brings the backing of one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies. The French multinational has significantly expanded its plant-based portfolio in recent years, acquiring brands such as Alpro and Silk, and making public commitments to align its product development with environmental and health goals.

Millet’s background in corporate strategy and plant-based business development at Danone positions him well to represent the sector during what may be a formative period. As President of Plant-Based Foods Europe, he will be tasked with guiding the industry through ongoing regulatory debates, shifting consumer preferences, and increased scrutiny from both environmental and nutritional perspectives.

The association’s next strategic priorities are expected to include securing fair labeling rules, improving market access across EU member states, and continuing to build the scientific case for the health and sustainability credentials of plant-based diets.

Millet and his fellow board members will also be responsible for strengthening alliances with public institutions, NGOs, and other agrifood actors, aiming to keep the plant-based sector firmly on the policy agenda.