The newly formed Gin Guild celebrated its official inauguration today with its first-ever Installation Ceremony, held in the distinguished surroundings of the Mansion House, the official residence of the Lord Mayor of London.

The event marked a significant milestone in the ongoing renaissance of gin, uniting leading figures from across the industry under one body dedicated to promoting excellence, quality, and education in gin production and appreciation.

At the ceremony, Christopher Hayman, Chairman of Hayman Distillers, was installed as the Guild’s first Grand Rectifier, recognising his lifelong contribution to the gin industry.

He was joined by twelve other new Rectifiers, inducted as Founding Members of the Gin Guild:

  • John Burke (Bacardi Global Brands BV)
  • Ed Pilkington (Diageo)
  • Maurice Doyle (William Grant & Sons)
  • Edmund Baker (G&J Greenalls)
  • Charles Maxwell (Thames Distillers)
  • Christopher Parker (London & Scottish International)
  • Nicholas Cook (The Gin Guild’s first Director General)
  • Jonathan Driver (William Grant & Sons)
  • Emma Johansson (Bacardi)
  • Jim Long (Pernod Ricard Chivas Brothers)
  • Peter McKay (Alcohols Ltd)

The ceremony formally established the Guild under the auspices of the Worshipful Company of Distillers, linking centuries of London distilling tradition with the modern global gin industry.

Speaking at the event, Christopher Hayman said:

“The Gin Guild provides an important platform to bring together those committed to maintaining the highest standards of gin distillation and integrity. It is both a privilege and an honour to serve as its first Grand Rectifier.”

The Gin Guild’s creation reflects the dynamic growth and innovation seen in gin over the past decade, while reinforcing its historic and cultural heritage at the heart of London’s distilling excellence.