COVENTRY, England — At the annual meeting of the World Coatings Council in March 2021, Tom Bowtell, Chief Executive of the British Coatings Federation (BCF), was elected Vice President. The World Coatings Council is made up of members representing associations from the United States, China, European Union, Brazil, Mexico, Australia, Japan, Canada, South Africa, New Zealand, Turkey, France, Germany and the United Kingdom. The Council, which provides a forum for exchange and cooperation on major issues and priorities facing the industry, has established itself as a global voice with the United Nations, governments and NGOs.

“Following the UK’s decision to leave the EU, the BCF are keen to contribute to the significant issues affecting the coatings industry worldwide. It is a great honour to have the trust of my industry colleagues from associations around the world,” said Bowtell.

One of the most important issues for the coatings industry to focus on is the sustainability agenda. With the UK hosting United Nations COP26 later this year, it is an opportune moment for the BCF to be involved with helping the World Coatings Council evaluate the coatings industry successes and challenges against EU Sustainable Development Goals, in a report that will be published later this year.

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.”

It is expected that after a 12-month term as Vice President, Bowtell will take over the role of President at the next annual meeting of the World Coatings Council in March 2022.

For more information on the World Coatings Council visit www.worldcoatingscouncil.org.