BCF influence continues to grow on the world stage

2021 has seen the BCF broadening its influence, both globally and within the UK. Developing our position on the world stage and having the recognition as one of the leading coatings associations puts the UK firmly on the map, and helps the BCF influence the many critical issues and challenges our industry faces.

As well as representing the BCF on CEPE’s Operational Board, at the annual meeting of the World Coatings Council in March 2021, our CEO Tom Bowtell was elected Vice President. The Council, made up of members representing associations from over 17 countries, provides a forum for communicating and coordinating policy on trans-national issues that affect the paint and printing inks industry. Andy Doyle, President of the World Coatings Council and CEO of the American Coatings Association, commented: “Tom’s election as Vice President of the World Coatings Council was unanimously supported by industry colleagues, and I’m delighted to have such an experienced and proactive deputy in my final year as President.” In the UK, BCF continues to punch above its weight with leadership positions in the supply chain of the chemical, printing and manufacturing industries. Tom Bowtell is the new Chair of the Alliance of Chemicals Associations, which consists of 14 associations and includes a Government representative from the business department. Between them the ACA member trade associations represent some 1,400 companies, the majority of which are SMEs which, combined, in the UK have an annual turnover of £45 billion and employ 170,000 people. Tom Bowtell also represents the BCF at the most senior chemical industry engagement with Government on post Brexit chemical regulations, through his seat on the the Business Department (BEIS) Chemicals EU Exit Group (CEEG), one of only two trade associations invited to participate. In addition Tom is also a member of the Department for International Trade’s Chemicals Trade Advisory Group, looking at post Brexit trade deals, and the opportunities for chemicals and coatings manufacturers. In January 2021, Tom took over as Chair of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Surface Coatings Interest Group which focuses on bringing together the industrial and academic communities with an interest in surface coatings. This group aims to inspire the future generation of chemists which is critical to the sustainability of our industry. Initiatives and events such as the ‘Careers in Coatings’ webinar highlight the benefits of working within the industry and showcases the opportunities available.

BCF President Guy Williams commented, “At such a critical time for the sector it is great to see the BCF leading on so many key areas. Following Brexit, the pandemic and the raw materials crisis, the BCF having a strong global influence is critical to supporting our members. With the UK hosting United Nations COP26 later this year I am pleased to see the BCF’s involvement with the WCC on the Sustainable Development Goals and its sustainability agenda.”

Member of CEPE’s Operational Board Vice President of World Coatings Council

Chair of Royal Society of Chemistry’s Surface Coatings Interest Group Chair of Alliance of Chemical Associations