OXFORD, UK — At the British Coatings Federation's (BCF) Annual Conference and Gala Dinner in Oxford, UK, outgoing BCF President Vincent O'Sullivan, of PPG Architectural Coatings, handed over presidency of the BCF to David Beckford, of Pronto Industrial Paints.

Commenting on his new role, Beckford said, "The coatings industry faces a number of challenges, including the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, the defense of TiO₂ and continued pressure on raw material prices. It’s in times like these we need our trade associations, and I know the BCF will continue to work hard on our behalf to ensure that we have the support and knowledge to be able to adapt accordingly, so that we continue to grow and prosper as an association and industry."

Tom Bowtell, BCF's Chief Executive, commented, "I've really enjoyed working with Vincent O'Sullivan as President. He's challenged myself and the team to take things to the next level, and I look forward to working with David Beckford as we continue working on Brexit and other challenges to support the future prosperity of the UK coatings industry."