BPF Annual Dinner Attracts Record Numbers
The British Plastics Federation's 82nd Annual Dinner, which took place on 29th October 2015, attracted a record number of 508 guests.
During the evening's proceedings, it was announced that Mike Jones of Distrupol and Dr Stuart Patrick were to be awarded to BPF Gold Medal for their distinguished services to the BPF. The evening also served as a great opportunity to present the Horners Awards winner and runner up, Guardian and Oxtex respectively, with their certificates and award.
At the dinner, BPF President David Hall discussed developments within the industry. Following a grant of money awarded by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, the BPF has produced a strategy for the UK Plastics Industry. This is set to be launched in early 2016 and covers topics such as raising the profile of the industry, Circular Economy, collaboration across the UK supply chain, future markets for plastics products, and a greater engagement with the UK design community.
Another issue which is set to be covered by the strategy is education and skills; something which BPF President David Hall emphasised the importance of during his after dinner speech. As a result of this and work by the BPF's Education and Skills Committee, David Hall announced the BPF's intention to launch a Polymer Ambassadors Programme and called on members of the Federation to play a part by volunteering some of their time to talk to children in local schools. Referred to as 'Polymer Ambassadors', these individuals will be provided with educational kits, lesson plans and a tailored letter for use when writing to local schools.
Speaking of the initiative, BPF President David Hall said, "This is a great opportunity to explain what an innovative material plastic really is, as well as illustrating to children the attractiveness the industry. I'm confident that we can achieve great things if we come together as one to combine our expertise and enthusiasm for plastics."
