Richard ReedVisionary entrepreneur and co-founder of the Innocent drinks empire

Richard Reed is the co-founder and former co-CEO of Innocent, the brand that revolutionised the beverage industry by creating a mainstream market for fresh smoothies. Under his leadership, the company challenged traditional corporate structures to become a leader in the European market, at one point capturing over 70% of the sector. Beyond commercial success, Richard pioneered a purpose-led business model that prioritised green energy and committed 10% of profits to charitable causes before the business was eventually sold to Coca-Cola. The origins of the company remain one of the most famous stories in British business history. Starting with just £500 of fruit at a music festival, Richard and his co-founders asked customers to vote on their future careers by placing empty bottles in bins marked YES or NO. By the end of the weekend, the overwhelming response led them to resign from their jobs and pursue the venture full-time. Since then, his approach has balanced high-growth strategy with a human, often unconventional, brand personality. Today, Richard continues to shape the business landscape through strategic investments in high-profile ventures including Deliveroo, What3Words, and the energy provider Bulb. He is frequently booked for his ability to translate his experiences in branding and customer experience into lessons for modern leaders. Audiences value his perspective on building a sustainable, ethical brand that maintains a competitive edge while staying true to its core values. On stage, Richard Reed is best known for talks on Reputation, Branding & Marketing, Customer Service & Experience and ESG & Social Responsibility. Audiences leave with a clear, practical view of the subject rather than a generic overview — every keynote is shaped around the brief and the room. Richard Reed is regularly booked for Business Speaker and Conference Speaker, adapting tone, length and format to suit the event — from a 20-minute opener to a full conference keynote with Q&A. Based in UK, Richard Reed travels internationally for engagements. To check availability or request a tailored brief for your event, send an enquiry and we'll come back with fees, dates and a short summary of how Richard Reed would approach your audience.