The British Coatings Federation (BCF) held it’s Annual Conference 2024 on 23 May in Manchester. Current president Sharon Harte welcomed more than 160 delegates from the British coatings industry – the highest attendance ever. By Damir Gagro
Even though it still cannot be said the British Coatings industry is back on track, as demand remains soft, there are some positive developments. According to BCF managing director Tom Bowtell the inflation seems to be under control and an easing of raw material prices is recognisable. Consumer prices have also become steadier and the consumer confidence index – although being low – is turning into a positive development. Bowtell showed how important the trade relation with Europe is. Therefore, it is key to facilitate the trade with European countries.
Elections in Great Britain will be held in July, but BCF’s David Park does not expect a huge shift in politics no matter what party wins. Nevertheless, he stressed that after the elections, there will be more than 140 new members of parliament (MP). These new MPs need to be educated about the needs of the coatings industry.
Economist Andrea Boltho from Oxford Economics provided a broader economic perspective. He noted that while the economy is growing modestly and inflation is decreasing, high wages and costs continue to burden the economy. Boltho highlighted that the US market performed better than expected, in contrast to Germany, which faces significant struggles. Despite modest and uncertain recovery in the UK and Europe, technological advancements such as robotics, biotechnology, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence (AI) offer potential growth opportunities.
AI and digitization in manufacturing
The conference also focused on AI and digitization, with Sherin Mathews from AI Tech UK asserting that AI is a game-changer for the manufacturing sector. He noted that companies currently use only a fraction of their data’s potential. Fhaheen Khan from Make UK stressed the importance of accelerating digital adoption and automation to enhance productivity. He highlighted the severe labor shortages in the sector, with over 60,000 vacancies in the UK alone, and the need for manufacturers to share information on automation benefits.
Talent acquisition and leadership development
A panel discussion titled “Finding Future Leaders for the Coatings Sector” addressed the crucial issue of attracting and retaining talent. Panellists Molly Kershaw (PPG Industries), Andrew Roser (Akzo Nobel), Helen Anderton (INX International), and Tim Dogget (Chemical Business Association) shared insights on recruiting young talents. The discussion, moderated by Steve Bennet, engaged the audience into a vivid discussion. Using the Slido polling tool, the audience overwhelmingly prioritized attitude over skill, education, or prior experience in young recruits.
Collaboration and strategic vision
CEPE Chairman Roald Johannsen presented the vision, mission and purpose of the European umbrella association. He emphasised that an association is the strong voice to represent the needs of the industry in the context of an ever-changing environment. Constant change has reached an unprecedented pace and intensity. In order to continue to promote the importance of the industry, it is essential to work more closely together at European level. With the European Parliament elections in the next few weeks, he noted that we are at a crossroads. With the EU Green Deal on the one hand, the coatings sector requires an industrial deal. These two deals need to be balanced to achieve the twin goals of a sustainable environment and a thriving sustainable industry.
The BCF Silver Medal awarded to ACA’s Andy J. Doyle
During the gala dinner, Andy J. Doyle of the American Coatings Association was awarded with the BCF Silver Medal. The BCF Silver Medal was instigated by Leslie Silver OBE, founder of Silver Paint and Lacquer, upon his retirement in 1980. The Silver Medal recognises those who provide outstanding service and an exceptional contribution to the paints, coatings, printing ink and wallcovering industries’ growth and reputation.
The BCF Annual Conference 2024 provided a platform for industry leaders to discuss the current challenges and future opportunities within the British coatings industry. With a focus on economic outlook, strategic collaboration, technological advancements, and talent development, the conference highlighted the path forward for the industry amidst a landscape of uncertainty and change.
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