New contract association formed to raise the profile of packaging

The British Contract Packers Association (BCPA) has been formed to promote the concept and practice of contract manufacturing and packaging, and offers a number of benefits for both members and users of the British contract sector.

Operating under the secretariat of the Institute of Packaging, its aim is to raise the profile of the contract services sector by encouraging the development of recognised quality assurance procedures, promoting high standards of professionalism through training and education and by ensuring that its members conform to association's code of practice.

Alan Black has been elected as the association's first chairman. He has been associated with contract packaging for 20 years and is a former managing director and current director of Brecon Pharmaceuticals.

Commenting on the formation of the association, Black said, 'The industry needs a voice and the establishment of a body serving those within the contract services industry, and ultimately those who use it, is long overdue.

'We have some first class contractors in Britain and now the BCPA will act as a focal point for their activities and the services they provide.'

The vice-chairman is Roy Cosslet, who works for packaging and formulation consultants, Packform. Roy has over 30 years experience in the industry, and has a wide knowledge of packaging and product development.